Naveed Ul Haq
Budgam, Mar 12: The Trout Fish Farm in the Khag area of central Kashmir’s Budgam district has produced over four lakh rainbow trout fish seedlings, breaking its previous record. The farm is making dedicated efforts to further enhance production.
Farm Manager Riyaz Ahmed Khan said, “Khag Trout Fish Farm specialises in rearing rainbow trout, and stands out as the sole fish farm in Budgam district equipped with a hatchery. It extends its services not only to private fish farms within the district but also to those in central and north Kashmir.”
Khan said since he assumed the role as manager, there has been an increase in seed output. “Through consistent efforts, the hatchery has now produced almost four lakh rainbow trout fish seedlings, surpassing the previous record of 1.5 lakhs,” he said. He said the farm is making all-out efforts to further enhance output to ensure a steady supply of seedlings.
Regarding the economic impact, Riyaz said sales of rainbow trout previously generated over fifteen lakhs annually. The projected figure for this year indicates an increase to 25 lakhs, he said. Coupled with revenue from trout fish seeds, the overall revenue is anticipated to exceed fifty lakhs, he added.
Explaining the growth process, Khan said that rainbow trout fish, known for their slower growth compared to common carp, typically take about two months to reach fry size (seedlings). The water temperature plays a pivotal role in influencing the duration of this growth stage, he said.
The Department of Fisheries has introduced schemes aimed at empowering unemployed youth by providing financial assistance for establishing fish farms.
Presently, approximately 85 private Rainbow Trout Fish Farms are operational in Budgam district, not only creating employment opportunities for local residents but also contributing to regional job creation, Riyaz added.
