The Aquatic Boom that’s Revolutionizing the Lives of Kashmiri Youth

Suhail Wani
4 Min Read
The Jammu and Kashmir government has been actively promoting pisciculture in the private sector. Under the Rastriya Kisan Vikas Yojna (RKVY), the Department of Fisheries has successfully launched the propagation of fish culture in the private sector. As part of this initiative, 832 trout and carp fish ponds have been established in the private sector, providing avenues for earnings to unemployed youth.

Jammu and Kashmir, known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has recently witnessed an astonishing surge in fish farming. This once-neglected sector has transformed into a lucrative business venture. The same is now attracting educated youth from across the region. The story of Beauty Jan, a 23-year-old from Anantnag, is a testament to the success of this industry. With a government subsidy and training from the fisheries department, she has now established her own trout fish farm. Beauty Jan is now earning a staggering Rs 10 lakh per annum. The aquatic boom in valley is revolutionizing the lives of youth.

Beauty Jan’s journey is not an isolated case. Many young Kashmiris, including women, are embracing fish farming as a viable career option. The region now boasts over 1,000 private trout fish farms, with women owning 25% of these ventures. Iqra Jan, a 20-year-old from Pethnoo Salar, is another example of the success that can be achieved through trout farming. With an annual income of Rs 6 lakh, she has become a role model for young women in the Valley. This aquatic boom is setting forth multidimensional opportunities to the youth of valley.

The growth of fish farming in Jammu and Kashmir is attributed to the introduction of modern aquaculture technologies. The technologies include Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) and Biofloc. These innovations have enabled farmers to produce high-quality fish, consequently minimizing the environmental impact. The government has also launched several initiatives to support the industry. The initiatives include the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) and the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme for fish farmers.

The success of fish farming in Jammu and Kashmir is not limited to the financial gains. It has also created a ripple effect in the local economy, generating employment opportunities thereby contributing to the region’s food security. The story of Mudassir Ahmad Khan, a 24-year-old from Baramulla, is a prime example of this. After setting up his own fish farms, he has become a successful entrepreneur, inspiring many young people to follow in his footsteps.

As the region continues to grow in this sector, it is essential to recognize the crucial role that the government and private sector have played in its development. The introduction of modern technologies and the support provided to farmers have been instrumental in the industry’s success. The future of fish farming in Jammu and Kashmir looks bright, and it is exciting to see how this sector will continue to shape the lives of Kashmiri youth.

Aquatic Boom in Kashmir

Jammu and Kashmir’s aquatic boom is a testament to the power of innovation and entrepreneurship. The region’s youth are embracing fish farming as a viable career option, and the results are nothing short of remarkable. With the support of the government and private sector, the future of this industry looks bright, and it is thrilling to see how it will continue to shape the lives of Kashmiri youth.

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