In a picturesque tale from Himachal, the trout farming landscape is witnessing a commendable surge in production, yet farmers grapple with the intricate challenge of marketing their cold-water treasures to distant markets like Delhi and Chandigarh. Despite an impressive rise in trout production, farmers in Himachal Pradesh face hurdles in reaching broader markets. The majority of these dedicated farmers resort to unconventional means, sending their fresh produce to Delhi via night buses from the scenic town of Manali. Notably, there is a robust demand for trout fish in the upscale hotels of Manali, providing a local outlet for small-scale farmers. Vivek Chandel, Director of Fisheries, expressed the department’s commitment to supporting farmers in marketing their trout. However, as of now, the assistance is limited to providing fingerlings (fish seed) and feed. He highlighted that farmers have successfully established partnerships with hotels in Delhi and Chandigarh, fetching approximately Rs 1,000 per kg for trout in these markets. In Manali, the local demand allows them to secure about Rs 750 per kg. Despite the potential for growth, there is a notable absence of retail sales of trout within Himachal. Local markets lack demand, possibly due to the higher cost of trout compared to other available fish varieties. The Fisheries Department operates nine trout farms across the state, primarily serving as demonstration farms for training purposes. However, these farms contribute only eight to 10 metric tonnes annually. In contrast, the increasing interest from 650 farmers in trout farming resulted in a collective production of 1,178 metric tonnes this year. Himachal embraced the Danish strain of trout in 2020-21, shifting from the Norwegian technology previously employed. Rainbow trout, being the predominant species cultivated, is favored for its faster growth compared to the slow-growing brown trout, which the department introduces into cold-water streams for angling. With the government providing subsidies, including a 60% subsidy for SC/ST and women for trout farming structures, the industry is attracting attention in Kullu, Shimla, Kinnaur, Mandi, Chamba, and Sirmaur districts. The journey of Himachal’s trout farming, marked by successes and challenges, showcases the need for continued support, market exploration, and scientific innovation to ensure sustainable growth and economic benefits for the dedicated farmers in the region.

In the picturesque state of Sikkim in northeastern India, a transformative tale of aquaculture success unfolds as Prem Kumar Rai, a 45-year-old farmer, emerges as a trailblazer in rainbow trout farming. Rai’s journey, chronicled through an insightful interview, sheds light on his evolution from cultivating cardamom to becoming a thriving fish farmer, earning accolades and recognition from the state government. In 2012, seeking new avenues and spurred by the active promotion of rainbow trout farming by the Indian fisheries department, Rai transitioned from cardamom cultivation to fish farming. Armed with a modest investment of Rs 50,000 ($611), 2,000 fingerlings, and essential training from the fisheries department, Rai embarked on a journey that would redefine his livelihood. The initial challenges were substantial, with only 300 fingerlings surviving due to Rai’s limited knowledge of fish farming. Despite this, the first year yielded a profit of around Rs 40,000 ($488), showcasing Rai’s determination and adaptability. Addressing the intricacies of trout farming, Rai shares insights into combating diseases, particularly fungal infections, which contribute to a mortality rate of around 30 percent. Quick thinking and the addition of salt are essential to prevent loss if fins turn white—a testament to Rai’s hands-on expertise. The interview unveils the harsh realities Rai faced, with significant losses totaling Rs 9 lakhs ($11,000) in 2015, 2018, and 2021 due to water supply disruptions. Undeterred, Rai perseveres, ensuring the daily care of his trout farm from dawn till dusk, even facing the challenges of potential theft. Rai’s commitment to growth is evident in his annual production, boasting 600 broodstock and 100,000 juveniles this year, with plans to reach 300,000 by the next. Despite the challenges, Rai remains focused on expanding his business, envisioning a small hatchery to further contribute to the aquaculture sector. Acknowledging the support from the state fisheries department, Rai expresses gratitude for the assistance that led to his recognition as the state’s best trout farmer in 2020 and the recipient of the state’s best fish farmer award on World Fisheries Day last year. Rai’s ultimate ambition reflects his entrepreneurial spirit—expanding his business and establishing a hatchery. However, he highlights the need for government schemes to consider small farmers and provide tailored funding. In closing, Rai extends advice to aspiring fish farmers, emphasizing the tremendous scope and income prospects in the sector. His story serves as an inspiring testament to the transformative power of aquaculture, showcasing how one farmer’s resilience and dedication can create a ripple effect of success in the thriving landscapes of India’s pisciculture.