Mohipora (Kulgam), Dec 15: Manzoor Ahmad Beigh, a resident of Mohipora Kulgam, was unemployed and seeking livelihood opportunities when the fisheries department initiated the establishment of private fish farms.
Seeing this as a chance, Manzoor seized the opportunity and set up a fish farm with the department’s support.
He told Rising Kashmir that they’ve been actively involved in the fisheries sector since 2011. At that time, only five private farms had been established in Kulgam.
“We rear several varieties of fish, primarily focusing on Rainbow fish,” he said.
Manzoor said that Rainbow fish is highly preferred in trout culture, attracting customers not just from nearby Pulwama and Anantnag but also from distant areas.He said there is a slight decrease in fish demand in certain months, starting from June, yet the farm consistently maintains sales.
However, during this season, their business experiences a significant surge. “We sell approximately 20-30 kilograms of fish daily, amounting to a good yearly turnover of 5-6 lakhs. It provides us with a sustainable livelihood and ensures our family’s well-being,” he added.
He said there is need to utilize the river water in Kulgam more efficiently.
Manzoor acknowledged the support received from the administration in establishing the farm, having expanded to two additional fish farms since its inception.
He appealed to the government for strategic marketing interventions, proposing the establishment of a society that could facilitate larger productions and exports, thereby enhancing their overall productivity.
