Himachal: 65 million seeds, pong reservoir set to promote fish production

Himachal Pradesh: In an effort to increase fish production and improve the income of fishermen, Himachal Pradesh Fisheries Department Himachal Pradesh Fisheries Department has introduced 65 lakh fish seeds in Pong reservoir, which is also known as Maharana Pratap Sagar Is. The reservoir, extending more than 24,000 hectares, supports the livelihood of 3,338 fishermen from 15 registered cooperatives. Vivek Chandel, director of the fisheries department, said that the seeds of Katla, Rohu, Mori, and Grass Carp species, were used more than 70 mm every size. The distribution included 30 lakh Katla seeds, 20 lakh Rohu seeds, 5 lakh Mori seeds and 10 lakh grass carp seeds. Prominent places like Sihal, Mazhar, Dadsiba and Jambal were selected for this process, with the supervision of the department, the cooperative societies of local fisheries and public representatives.
This year till 15 November, the reservoir has produced 2,32,440 kg of fish, priced at around Rs 4.72 crore. Matsya Cooperative Assembly Nandpur reported the highest price of Rs 311 per kg, underlining the unique position of the reservoir as the country’s most attractive fishing area. Director Chandel stressed the department’s commitment to achieve the production target of 340 tonnes by March next year. Last year, 330 tonnes were recorded in the same period. He appealed to the fishermen to protect stocked fish seeds to ensure sustainable fish supply and future economic benefits. The initiative not only promotes production, but also provides an important income source for local fishermen, in which prices continuously increase annually. The program reflects a strategic approach to maximize the ability of the reservoir, preserving its aquatic resources.