One-day training cum demonstration programme for fish farmers/officials of Fisheries Department, Leh was organized by ICAR - Directorate of Coldwater Fisheries Research (DCFR), Bhimtal, Uttarakhand, in collaboration with the Department of Fisheries, Leh at Chuchot Shamma on March 5.

The subject of the training was Re-circulatory Aquaculture System (RAS) based on Rainbow Trout hatchery and nursery management in high altitudes. 

Secretary, Animal & Sheep Husbandry and Fisheries, UT Ladakh, Ravinder Kumar inaugurated an aqua garden set-up by DCFR at the private farm of Zubair Ahmad, a progressive fish farmer of Leh, for the rearing of ornamental fish which can be a pioneering step towards culture and breeding of ornamental fishes in Ladakh.

The set-up and operation of the RAS hatchery-nursery system at Zubair’s farm were briefed to the distinguished guests and farmers by DCFR scientists. 50000 No’s of rainbow trout eyed ova has been placed in this newly established RAS for hatching on an experimental basis in addition to approx. 5000 first feeding alevins produced from the first trial batch.

Principal Scientist, DCFR, Dr. R.S. Patiyal highlighted the steps taken by DCFR for technology transfer for best management practices in RAS based hatchery and nurseries in Ladakh. He also emphasized the best farm management practices and usage of an improved variety of trout feed and seed.

The Secretary distributed kits among the fish farmers for water analysis and record-keeping notebooks prepared by DCFR for proper recording of various parameters of aquaculture. He appreciated the efforts of DCFR in providing technology and training to intensive fish culture in Ladakh and further informed that the department is going to sign MOU with DCFR in near future for technology transfer and standardization of technology with the fisheries department.

He also promised to extend the fullest support to the research institute for framing a road map for aquaculture development and conservation of fish fauna in UT Ladakh. DCFR is in the process of formulation of a road map for the development of aquaculture in Ladakh for which stakeholders meeting is being conducted shortly.

Assistant Director, Fisheries Leh welcomed the guests and gave brief information about the various activities of the fisheries department in Leh district and the efforts department is making in promoting and handholding of fish farmers and entrepreneurs. He also thanked DCFR for providing assistance and training both to the fish farmers and officials of the fisheries department in aquaculture management.

Scientists from DCFR gave detailed training to the participants on feed, seed and water quality management for profitable rainbow trout culture.

Later the Secretary visited the government fish farm and hatchery at Chuchot Shamma and took stock of the ongoing hatching process in the trout hatchery.

Assistant Director Fisheries, Leh briefed about the successful hatching of 50000 hatchlings and import of 50000 No’s of fertilized trout fish eggs in eyed ova stage from DCFR, Bhimtal, Uttarakhand. Secretary expressed his satisfaction over the working of department and hard work put on by the staff and congratulated them on successful breeding process.