Himachal Fisheries Department Prepares 20 Lakh Fish Spawn to Boost Aquaculture

The Himachal Pradesh Fisheries Department is currently engaged in large-scale production of fish spawn (eggs and sperm released into water for breeding) of various species. In a first for the district, the Sirmour Fisheries Department is preparing 20 lakh spawn of Hungarian Common Carp and Common Carp at the Badripur fish farm in Paonta Sahib.

About the Hungarian Common Carp

The Hungarian Common Carp, a breed of Common Carp also known as Amur Common Carp, was introduced to Sirmour in 2022. Originally from Hungary, this variety is highly valued, while the Common Carp remains one of the most widely found freshwater fish globally. Additionally, the department is preparing around 3 lakh spawn of Golden Carp, Rohu, and Katla. Trout fish farming is also active in the district, though currently limited to private enterprises.

No More Trips to Hoshiarpur!

Previously, local fish farmers had to travel to Nalagarh or Punjab’s Hoshiarpur to procure spawn for Hungarian and Common Carp. Now, with sufficient spawn production within Sirmour, farmers can source their requirements locally. The department is ensuring strict monitoring of the spawn production process.

Sirmour’s Thriving Fish Farming Sector

• 800 fishermen and 150 fish farmers operate in Sirmour.
• The district has 93 fish farming units, including trout and other species.
• Government schemes like the PM Matsya Sampada Yojana and Mukhyamantri Carp Matsya Palan Yojana provide subsidies:
• 80% subsidy for pond construction under the CM’s scheme.
• 40-60% subsidy for general and SC/ST/women beneficiaries under the PM’s scheme.

Awareness Drives & Permits for Fishermen

The department is running awareness campaigns to promote optimal use of water resources and educate farmers on fish farming benefits. Additionally, fishing permits have been issued to support livelihoods, especially since June-July marks a breeding ban in rivers and reservoirs to protect spawning fish.

Officials’ Statement

Dr. Somanath Patiyal, Assistant Director of Fisheries, stated:
“For the first time, Sirmour is producing 10 lakh spawn each of Hungarian and Common Carp at the Badripur farm. This marks a major step in boosting local fish farming, with farmers actively benefiting from state and central schemes.”

With these efforts, Himachal aims to strengthen aquaculture, reduce dependency on external spawn sources, and uplift local fishermen and farmers.