New Delhi: The Union government has approved a ₹100 crore Anantnag Aqua Park project to strengthen cold-water fisheries and aquaculture infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir.
Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying and Panchayati Raj Rajiv Ranjan Singh announced the project during the National Conference on Cold Water Fisheries in Srinagar.
The facility will be developed in Anantnag district and aims to boost fish production, support aquaculture infrastructure and generate employment opportunities in the region.
The minister also released the “Model Guidelines for the Development of Cold-Water Fisheries” at the conference.
Officials said the Anantnag Aqua Park will strengthen the fisheries value chain and encourage scientific aquaculture practices.
Anantnag Aqua Park to expand cold-water fisheries ecosystem
Rajiv Ranjan Singh stressed the need to scale up trout production and improve incomes of cold-water fish farmers.
He said the government aims to strengthen the entire fisheries value chain through better infrastructure, processing facilities and market access.
The Anantnag Aqua Park will support enterprises involved in fish farming, feed production, processing and cold-chain systems.
During the event, dignitaries also honoured progressive fish farmers, fisheries cooperatives, start-ups and Kisan Credit Card beneficiaries from Jammu and Kashmir.
Awards recognised farmers and entrepreneurs who adopted scientific practices and contributed to sustainable aquaculture.
Officials also distributed refrigerated vehicles and three-wheelers to improve post-harvest handling and last-mile transport.
Meanwhile, the government released guidelines for reservoir fisheries and aquaculture management. The framework focuses on scientific stocking, cage culture, biodiversity protection and value-chain development.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said the new aqua park would act as a catalyst for fisheries growth in the region.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah emphasised the need for sustainable development of cold-water resources using modern technology and scientific practices.
Officials said the initiative aligns with national efforts to expand fisheries infrastructure, strengthen rural livelihoods and promote climate-resilient aquaculture.
