MANDI: In a significant step toward promoting angling tourism and fish conservation, the Himachal Pradesh Fisheries Department has stocked 10,000 brown trout fingerlings (Norwegian strain) in Uhl river in Barot Valley of Mandi district.
The initiative was led by the State Fisheries Department under the guidance of Vivek Chandel, Director-Cum-Warden, Fisheries Department, Himachal Pradesh, in collaboration with the local administration.
The stocking was carried out in the presence of Surjeet Singh, SDM, Paddar, and Vimal Guleria, Fisheries Officer, Trout Farm, Barot.
Speaking to The Newz Radar, Vivek Chandel said, “This initiative is a crucial step towards enhancing angling tourism while ensuring the conservation of brown trout in our rivers.
The pristine waters of Uhl provide an ideal habitat for these fish, and by stocking these fingerlings, we aim to promote sustainable fishing and boost the local economy.”
Chandel highlighted that the department was successfully culturing Norwegian and Denmark strains of brown trout at Trout Fish Farm Barot, Mandi, and Trout Fish Farm Dhanwari, Shimla.
“Brown trout thrive in natural conditions but are difficult to breed in traditional enclosures. Our farms are playing a vital role in their conservation and propagation,” he added.
Introduced in India by the British in the 1860s
Brown trout was first introduced in India by the British in the 1860s, with the first successful hatching in Himachal Pradesh occurring in 1909-10 at Katrain, Mahili Hatchery, Kullu.
According to Vivek Chandel, the Fisheries Department has also initiated a genetic rejuvenation program to further strengthen the species.
“We are actively working on the development of brown trout in our farms at Barot (Mandi), Dhanwari (Shimla) and Hamni Banjar (Kullu). Additionally, we are promoting rainbow trout farming among local farmers to expand fishery-based livelihood opportunities,” Chandel explained.
The department has identified several stretches of the Uhl to be developed as fishing hotspots, catering to both domestic and international anglers.
“Our goal is to make Himachal Pradesh a prime destination for angling tourism. With Tirthan and Barot Valley already recognised as angler’s paradise, this initiative will further enhance the experience for fishing enthusiasts,” he added.
Sustainable fishing for economic growth
Chandel emphasised that the continued stocking of brown trout in various rivulets of Mandi district would help maintain a healthy fish population while encouraging responsible fishing practices.
“By promoting sustainable fishing, we are ensuring the long-term survival of brown trout while simultaneously boosting the tourism-driven economy in the region. This effort will also create more opportunities for local communities involved in fisheries and tourism,” he said.
He concluded by reaffirming the department’s commitment to conservation and eco-friendly tourism: “Our aim is not just to promote angling but to ensure the ecological balance of our rivers, making Himachal Pradesh a model state for sustainable fisheries management.”
Munish Sood
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