Why in news?
The Government of India has highlighted cold‑water fisheries as a priority sector within the country’s Blue Economy strategy. Recent assessments identify hundreds of species living in Himalayan streams and lakes, and investments under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) aim to expand production, infrastructure and livelihoods.
Background
Cold‑water fisheries include fish that thrive in clear, oxygen‑rich waters at high altitudes. Species such as snow trout, golden mahseer and introduced rainbow and brown trout inhabit rivers and lakes in Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and parts of the north‑east. These fish are important for food, recreation and tourism in mountain regions. Researchers have documented more than 278 cold‑water species in India.
Recent developments
- Growing production: India produces about 7,000 tonnes of cold‑water fish annually. Trout farming has grown rapidly, with output increasing 1.8 times over the past decade to around 6,000 tonnes.
- Investment under PMMSY: Between 2020 and 2026 the PMMSY has sanctioned projects worth over ₹5,638 crore for cold‑water states. These funds support hatcheries, raceways, feed mills, cold‑chain facilities and training programmes aimed at improving productivity and reducing post‑harvest losses.
- International collaboration: India is partnering with Norway and Iceland to adopt advanced breeding and feeding technologies suitable for cold‑water species. Such cooperation helps transfer expertise on fish health and sustainable aquaculture.
Significance
Cold‑water fisheries offer livelihoods to highland communities and can help reduce the need for fish imports. Expanding this sector must balance economic gains with environmental protection, ensuring that fragile mountain ecosystems are not harmed by overstocking or pollution. With careful management and community participation, India’s cold‑water resources can contribute to nutrition, employment and ecotourism.