PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/ Bageshwar
The trout fish business has gained significant momentum in the border district of Pithoragarh, bringing substantial financial benefits to locals engaged in fish breeding. Over the past year, the fish farmers have earned nearly Rs three crore from trout farming.
With support from the Fisheries department, trout was supplied to the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP). The fish is witnessing a surging demand in the open market too, ensuring hefty returns for farmers.
According to the department officers, around 1,000 fish farmers produced nearly 60 tonnes of cold-water trout last year. Of this, 45 tonnes were sold, generating an income of approximately Rs 2.96 crore.
About 7.6 tonnes were supplied to ITBP at the rate of Rs 450 per kg while 37 tonnes were sold in the open market at Rs 700 per kg. The figures clearly show that trout farming is emerging as a profitable venture for the people of the district.
Buoyed by the trend, the department will soon distribute 40,000 trout seeds to farmers at a 50 per cent subsidy to further boost production. Trout farming is currently being carried out in Dharchula, Munsiyari, Kanalichina, Didihat and Bin areas of the district.
Speaking of this issue, the district Fisheries officer, Pithoragarh, Ramesh Chalal said that efforts are being made to promote trout production in the district. “Fish farmers are earning good income through trout farming and the department is also ensuring proper market access for them,” he added.
