Fish seedlings released in Ravi and Budhil rivers to boost aquaculture

Our Correspondent

Chamba, July 20

In a major step toward strengthening the aquaculture sector in Himachal Pradesh, the Fisheries Department has released over 13,000 high-quality brown trout fish seedlings into the Ravi and Budhil rivers at Holi in the tribal region of Bharmour.

According to department officials, 6,000 brown trout seedlings were released into the Ravi at Holi, while 7,600 were introduced into the Budhil river at Thalla. The fish seed was supplied from the government trout farm at Thalla. The release was carried out in the presence of Chamba Fisheries Officer Pritam Chand, Trout Farm Officer Vijay Kumar and departmental supervisor Rakesh Kumar, along with local panchayat members and residents.

Earlier, 1.57 lakh fingerlings of the common carp species were released into the Chamera reservoir, sourced from the Sultanpur fish farm. These fish are expected to mature within one to one-and-a-half years, after which they will be available for commercial fishing and market sale.

The initiative is expected to benefit not only fish lovers with access to high-quality freshwater fish from the Ravi and Chamera reservoir but also improve the livelihoods of local fishermen and those engaged in fisheries-related activities. Officials said the state government was working to increase fish production in the district by releasing fish seed not only in reservoirs but also in rivers and their tributaries. The Ravi and its feeders have traditionally supported the livelihoods of local communities and fishermen for generations.

To further support remote areas, the department is also encouraging the construction of small fish tanks along streams and rivulets, with financial assistance being provided. This initiative aims to ensure direct economic benefits to those involved in fish farming in far-flung regions.

Fish farming in Chamba has seen steady growth in recent years, supported by the district’s natural water resources, including rivers, streams, and man-made reservoirs. The Fisheries Department has been promoting sustainable aquaculture practices by providing quality fish seed, training, and subsidies for setting up fish ponds, especially in remote and tribal areas.

With government assistance, small-scale fish farmers are building tanks along minor streams to cultivate trout and carp varieties. These localised fish farming projects are creating self-employment opportunities and enhancing income for rural families, making fishery an increasingly viable livelihood option in the district. The department aims to scale up production further, ensuring food security and economic upliftment through eco-friendly practices.

Himachal Tribune