Himachal Pradesh, a northern Indian state, is set to establish 15 land-based fish ponds utilizing recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) technology by 2025. The initiative is part of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) scheme, introduced by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in 2020.
As per reports from The Times of India, five ponds will be constructed in normal-water areas across Una, Mandi, and Surmaur districts, with an anticipated annual production of 40 metric tons (MT) each. The first two facilities are slated for construction in the current financial year. Additionally, 10 ponds will be established in cold-water regions spanning Kinnaur, Sirmaur, Shimla, Mandi, Chamba, and Kullu districts over the next five years, aiming for an annual output ranging from 4 MT to 10 MT per pond.
Himachal Pradesh’s fisheries department, projects a cumulative production of approximately 270 MT of fish per year from these 15 ponds upon full operation. Rainbow trout will be cultivated in the cold-water ponds, while pangasius, tilapia, and common carp will be farmed in normal-water areas.
Farmers involved in the initiative will receive training sessions hosted by the National Fisheries Development Board, focusing on best practices for cold-water aquaculture employing RAS technology. The state government intends to encourage private sector participation by offering financial assistance for construction expenses.
Implementing RAS technology is expected to empower local fish farmers by enabling year-round operations, particularly during water scarcity in summer months. Moreover, the technology ensures consistent fish growth unaffected by weather conditions, thereby promising a stable income source for farmers, according to the newspaper report.
