Last Updated on May 24, 2026 12:35 pm by BIZNAMA NEWS

Scientific Farming and Global Tech Pave Way for India’s Cold-Water Aquaculture Growth

SUDHIR KUMAR

NEW DELHI — India’s cold-water fisheries are undergoing a major transformation, evolving from localized Himalayan practices into a sophisticated, nationwide aquaculture network. The shift is driving economic growth, ecotourism, and food security across the country’s mountainous regions.

Data released by the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying reveals that India is currently home to over 278 identified cold-water fish species. Total national production has reached 7,000 metric tonnes. Notably, trout farming has seen a spectacular 1.8-fold increase over the last ten years, touching 6,000 metric tonnes in 2024–25.

MetricCurrent Status (2024-25)Growth Benchmark
Total Cold-Water Production7,000 Metric TonnesExpanding via scientific farming
Trout Production~6,000 Metric Tonnes1.8x increase over the last decade
PMMSY Funding (2020-26)₹5,638+ CroreAllocated to cold-water states