State Vision News Service Kishtwar, Nov. 13 Deputy Commissioner DC Rajesh Kumar Shavan today visited various private fish culture units established under schemes like Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana PMGSY , and Holistic Agriculture Development Program HADP . The visit, aimed at assessing operational efficiency and identifying further growth opportunities, covered key fish culture units in Nagra Dool and Pehalgwara, Chatroo. Accompanied by Assistant Director of Fisheries Kul Bhushan Verma, DC Shavan inspected the fish farms and observed multiple stages of trout production, including fry, fingerlings, table sized fish, and brood stock. The presence of a full range of fish development stages among private beneficiaries signaled positive progress in local fish farming operations. Expressing satisfaction over the operations, he acknowledged the efforts of local beneficiaries in cultivating a self sustaining fish farming ecosystem. A highlight of the visit included the inspection of land earmarked for the construction of a Trout Feed Mill in the Dool area. This facility, once developed, is expected to enhance trout farming by ensuring a consistent, quality feed supply to fish culture units in the district and chenab Valley. During discussions with private fish farmers, the beneficiaries requested support for establishing feed and equipment storage facilities.
Recognizing this need, R K Shavan directed the Rural Development Department RDD to evaluate and address the demand by providing the necessary infrastructure to streamline fish farming processes. This measure aims to help farmers manage their resources more efficiently, thereby boosting productivity. Moreover, DC Shavan emphasized expanding fish culture operations in Chatroo, acknowledging its untapped potential. He instructed AD Fisheries to actively identify new beneficiaries in the region who could establish additional fish culture units under relevant schemes.He fixed a target of 20 more fish units in the district. This initiative aligns with the district s vision of promoting sustainable aquaculture as a viable economic activity. DC Kishtwar s visit underscores the administration s commitment to developing the fisheries sector by fostering private investment, providing essential facilities, and introducing targeted support. This proactive approach is anticipated to enhance income opportunities for local fish farmers, promote rural economic development, and increase the availability of fresh fish within the district. The District Administration will continue to monitor and support the aquaculture sector, ensuring that the necessary resources and infrastructure are available to private fish farmers as they contribute to the district s economic growth.
