Under an active memorandum of understanding to augment fish production in Ladakh, the ICAR-Directorate of Coldwater Fisheries Research (DCFR) has meticulously prepared a roadmap for the sustainable development of aquaculture and fisheries in the Union Territory of Ladakh, in collaboration with the Department of Animal Sheep Husbandry and Fisheries, Ladakh. 

This policy document was prepared based on extensive farm surveys, field data collection, stakeholder meetings and observations of the scientists of ICAR-DCFR and officials of the Department of ASH & Fisheries, during 2021-2022. 

This road map was further revised and fine-tuned through a high-level brainstorming meeting chaired by the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor and attended by higher officials from UT Ladakh Administration, ICAR, Fisheries Departments of Himalayan states, scientists, farmers, and other stakeholders. 

This road map contains baseline information of aquatic resources and fish production systems in Ladakh and provides a scientifically well-oriented action plan for strategically developing aquaculture production and for managing the unique fisheries resources of Ladakh. 

Scientists from ICAR-DCFR handed over the final published document to Secretary Ravinder Kumar and Dr. Md. Iqbal, Director, Department of ASH & Fisheries, for well-informed decision-making on initiatives for aquaculture and fisheries development in Ladakh. Furthermore, the Department and ICAR-DCFR has strengthened their partnership for human resource development, scientific hand holding and sharing of innovative technologies and inputs.