SRINAGAR, July 20: The production of trout has increased at Asia’s largest fisheries farm in south Kashmir’s Kokernag area, which is in greater demand among locals. Known for its natural beauty, Kashmir has the distinction of having Asia’s largest fisheries farm in Kokernag. The farm is emerging best producer of Rainbow Trout fish across the world. “We provide seed to over 500 farmers. This farm generated revenue of Rs 1.73 crore during 2018 which went up to Rs 1.83 crore last year. In addition seed was sold for Rs 40 lakh to farmers,” an official said. The official said at least 500 farmers are provided quality and healthy seed. The Fisheries Department set up a trout farming project at Kokernag in south Kashmir with the European Economic Community’s assistance in 1984. “The infrastructure has been upgraded over the years and Kokernag has turned out to be Asia’s largest fish farm project,” the official said. The project is managed by the local officials who are technically knowhow about trout seed production. Syed Manzoor is the supervisor of the farm, who has well expertise in rearing fish. Chief Project Officer (CPO) of the farm, Muzaffar Hussain Bazaz said the farm is known worldwide for its production. “Rainbow trout is cold water fish and should have temperatures between 0 to 20 degree Celsius. It is rich in protein and boosts immunity. The revenue and production increase with each year,” he said. After achieving success in breeding trout, the Department over the years has ensured that the trout which was considered as a Royal food reaches the common people in Kashmir. Trout is a highly nutritious food. An average-sized trout contains about 1.8 grams of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids that are needed for the development of the brain and retina in infants. Trout also contains 20 percent protein, vitamins A, B, B1, C2 and D and forms the basis of a healthy, low-fat and fibre-rich diet. The introduction of trout in Kashmir for angling is credited to a Britain Frank Mitchell. In 1899, he reared the trout in the premises of his private carpet factory at Bagh-e-Dilawar Khan, located in Shahr-e-Khas. He established the first trout hatchery at Harwan in 1901 and trained the locals.(KINS)
