Fisheries form an important component of the economy of Jammu and Kashmir, which along with agriculture, contributes a significant 23% to its Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP). Besides being an important allied activity to agriculture, it contributes significantly to the agricultural economy and also generates self-employment.
The paper titled 'Lake fisheries in Kashmir: A case more undone than done' published in the Economic and Political Weekly, informs that the two important lakes Dal and Wular, contribute as high as 70% of the total fish production in the state. They were noted for having a flourishing fisheries production over the years but recent data on fish production shows a decline in fish catch in both these lakes.
The paper argues that priority of the government seems to be more towards revenue generation from tourism rather than the conservation and development of lake fisheries, which would enable the fisherfolk to earn increased income in terms of return on time invested in fishing.
The focus on carp species has not led to increased production. Recent data on fisheries indicates that there has been a steady decrease in the total fish production in Dal lake for local fish as well as carp. This calls for a more balanced stock of local species such as schizothorax along with carp.
Special care needs to be taken to ensure sustainable and growing stock of the local species and lesser of carp. Carp culture can be promoted as a separate freshwater aquaculture activity in other water bodies, which would yield good income and help maintain the supply of fish to the markets.
The paper argues that the restoration of schizothorax fishery in the lakes of Kashmir will ensure socio-economic growth and development of sustainable and balanced fisheries. A well-designed plan of action for this restoration is the need of the hour. The paper identifies the need to:
The paper ends by arguing that until such measures are implemented in letter and spirit, the case of restoration of lake fisheries will remain a case more undone than done.
A copy of the paper can be accessed below.