Himachal Pradesh Delivers Rainbow Trout Ova to Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Arunachal
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Synopsis
Himachal Pradesh has become a key exporter of rainbow trout eyed ova to Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh, with significant production increases and governmental support for aquaculture.
Key Takeaways
- Himachal Pradesh is a leading exporter of rainbow trout ova.
- 9.05 lakh ova supplied to Uttarakhand.
- Production expected to exceed 20 lakh eyed ova.
- Support for farmers in cold-water aquaculture.
- Boost in angling tourism through brown trout production.
Shimla, March 2 (NationPress) Himachal Pradesh has positioned itself as a top exporter of premium rainbow trout eyed ova, catering to neighboring hill states such as Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh.
As per an official statement released on Sunday, trout hatchery farmers have delivered an impressive 9.05 lakh rainbow trout eyed ova solely to Uttarakhand under various schemes.
Eyed ova refers to a developmental stage of rainbow trout eggs when the embryo is visible as dark spots, indicating growth. This year, the Department of Fisheries has successfully generated 12.60 lakh rainbow trout eyed ova along with 1.74 lakh brown trout eyed ova from eight government-operated farms situated in Patlikuhal and Hamni in Kullu, Barot in Mandi, and Thalla, Holi, and Bhandal in Chamba.
With breeding activities ongoing, the total production of eyed ova is anticipated to exceed 20 lakh, marking a notable increase from last year’s 15.79 lakh in the government sector.
Moreover, the private sector is poised to match this production, with nine active hatcheries across Kullu, Mandi, and Sirmour districts aiming for a total of 20 lakh eyed ova.
Overall, trout production in the state, which was recorded at 1,402 metric tons for 2023-24, is projected to rise to 1,600 metric tons in 2024-25. The department is actively aiding farmers in Kullu to supply eyed ova to Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. Progressive farmers like Sher Singh from Swad village in Mandi, Rajeev Jaswal from Shanan village in Joginder Nagar, and Sarla Negi from Fojal village in Kullu have made substantial contributions.
To enhance rainbow trout production in the state’s cold waters, the Fisheries Department has set up a cold-water Recirculating Aquaculture System unit at the trout farm in Patlikuhal.
A similar unit has also been established in the private sector, with both facilities currently operational. These initiatives are expected to significantly advance cold-water aquaculture in the state, according to Fisheries Director Vivek Chandel.
Besides rainbow trout, the state has experienced an increase in brown trout ova production, which is vital for promoting angling tourism. Brown trout, known for its slower growth, is primarily cultivated for ranching in waters to maintain biodiversity and enhance angling tourism.
Successful breeding of Norwegian and Danish strains of brown trout has been conducted at Barot and Dhamwari in Shimla district trout farms. The fingerlings produced here are being released into trout-friendly rivers throughout the state.
By December 2024, Himachal Pradesh attracted 3,524 anglers, solidifying its status as a premier angling tourism destination. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu stated that the initiatives by the Department of Fisheries have not only enhanced aquaculture production but have also motivated the youth to explore opportunities within the sector.
“By promoting sustainable and scientific aquaculture practices, we are empowering the next generation of farmers to contribute to national food security and economic growth,” an official statement quoting the Chief Minister remarked.
