The Department of Fisheries, Himachal Pradesh, has addressed concerns regarding the challenges faced by trout farmers, particularly in the wake of recent natural disasters. Acknowledging the difficulties posed by monsoon seasons and flash floods, the department reiterated its commitment to strengthening the trout farming industry and providing necessary support to farmers.
A report by The Tribune highlighted the financial struggles of trout farmers, especially in Kullu district, due to recurring flash floods in recent years. Responding to this, Vivek Chandel, Director of the Fisheries Department, shared details of ongoing initiatives aimed at bolstering the sector.
Growth of trout farming and financial assistance
Chandel noted that Kullu district currently has 129 active trout farmers, benefiting from various subsidy schemes. Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), the department has actively promoted trout farming. Between 2021 and 2025, a total of 38 new farmers were inducted, and 85 raceways were constructed.
Despite the progress, trout farmers have suffered significant losses due to flash floods. In 2023-24, 13 farmers in Kullu incurred losses totaling Rs. 238.9 lakh, while department-run farms reported losses of Rs. 223.99 lakh. In 2024-25, eight farmers suffered losses amounting to Rs. 103.2 lakh. To address these issues, the department has proposed enhanced disaster relief measures, currently under review by the state government.
The department has also facilitated sustainable aquaculture practices, introducing cold water Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) under the PMMSY scheme in 2020-21. Notable beneficiaries include: Mamta Verma, who received a Rs 30 lakh subsidy for a RAS unit worth Rs 50 lakh; Shakti Singh, president of the Trout Farmers Association, who availed Rs 5.4 lakh for three raceways under the Blue Revolution scheme in 2019-20.
Addressing allegations
and expanding support
Some farmers had alleged that the Fisheries Department was competing with private farmers in the market. Chandel denied these claims, stating that the department’s primary role is to support farmers by providing high-quality trout seeds. Over the past two years, the department has produced 12.90 lakh trout ova at its hatcheries in Patlikuhal and Hamini, which are then sold to farmers at subsidised rates.
In response to the increasing demand for trout, the department has expanded hatchery production to ensure a steady supply of trout seeds. Additionally, to boost trout sales, the department has launched a direct-to-consumer initiative, allowing tourists and locals to buy trout fish at Patlikuhal farm, located on the route to Manali.
Financial security and online market access
To safeguard farmers against losses, the department has facilitated insurance coverage for trout livestock. Furthermore, it has proposed revisions to the disaster relief manual, suggesting a Rs. 50,000 relief for a fully functional trout raceway, with a maximum of two raceways per farmer eligible for compensation.
In a bid to expand market access, the department is exploring online platforms like Licious and Damn Good Fish to help farmers sell their trout directly to consumers, enhancing profitability.
Commitment to sustainable growth
The Fisheries Department reiterated its commitment to fostering sustainable aquaculture and addressing the challenges faced by trout farmers. Through initiatives like financial aid, infrastructure support, market expansion, and disaster relief, the department aims to ensure the long-term viability of trout farming in Himachal Pradesh.
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