CM Carp Fish Farming Scheme Boosts Rural Livelihoods in Himachal

Kangra, November 11: The Himachal Pradesh government’s Chief Minister Carp Fish Farming Scheme is emerging as a powerful tool for rural livelihood generation and self-employment. Aimed at promoting sustainable income sources beyond traditional agriculture, the scheme focuses on developing freshwater carp farming in warm-climate regions of the state.

Under the scheme, beneficiaries receive up to 80% subsidy on pond construction and first-year inputs such as fish seed, feed, and medicines. With a unit cost of ₹12.40 lakh per hectare, the government provides ₹8.40 lakh for pond development and ₹4 lakh for inputs. Priority is given to unemployed youth, women, and SC applicants. Applicants must have their own land or land leased for at least seven years.

The Fisheries Department also provides technical training, fish seed supply, disease control assistance, feed management support, and marketing guidance. Cooperative groups are encouraged to join the scheme to strengthen production and marketing networks.

Success stories from Nurpur and Fatehpur show the scheme’s impact: beneficiaries like Lovely Kumar, Rakesh Kumar, and Ramesh Chandra have received subsidies ranging from ₹1.03 lakh to ₹1.39 lakh, enabling them to build ponds, create employment, and earn stable income through fish farming.

Assistant Director (Fisheries) Sandeep Kumar said all categories of beneficiaries receive equal 80% subsidy, making it an excellent avenue for rural self-employment. Deputy Commissioner Hemraj Bairwa added that fish farming holds immense potential for youth, especially in lower regions and Pong Dam areas, where modernization and marketing networks are being strengthened.

The scheme is proving to be a strong step toward diversifying the rural economy and empowering youth with sustainable livelihood opportunities.