Rainbow trout in Jammu and Kashmir: Present status and strategies for expansion

Jammu and Kashmir, often referred to as “heaven on Earth,” owes its distinct soil and vegetation to its unique climate. With abundant green forests and high-altitude terrain, it boasts valuable natural resources such as Himalayan glaciers and rivers.

Rainbow trout is a promising cultivable fish species in cold water and holds significant potential for expansion. As a high-value commodity with relatively low production volume, trout offers opportunities for both domestic consumption and foreign export. However, the development and scaling of trout farming in the region has not yet been realised on a large scale. 

This article documents the history of trout fisheries in the region, describes the present status of trout farming infrastructure, and provides strategies to expand the industry.