DOGRA HERALD BUREAU
RAMBAN, Dec 27
In a notable example of youth entrepreneurship, Mohd Irfan, a 27-year-old resident of Thopal village in Tehsil Batote, District Ramban, has emerged as a trailblazer in the field of trout fish farming. Choosing entrepreneurship over Government as well as traditional employment, Irfan has established his own trout fish farming business, serving as an inspiration for the youth across the district.
Initially running a Karyana shop in his locality after completing his 10th-grade examination, Mohd Irfan sought a new venture and applied for a fisherman license from the Fisheries Department, Ramban. Drawn to the possibilities offered by the Department’s beneficiary and job-oriented schemes, he decided to venture into trout fish farming.
Under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), Mohd Irfan established his trout fish farm in Thopal during the year 2020-21. The total project cost amounted to Rs. 5.50 lakh, with the department providing a substantial subsidy of Rs. 2.20 lakh under the scheme. Expressing his success, Mohd Irfan shared, “I have earned about Rs. 3 lakh annually from the fish farming, in addition to managing my shop and engaging in small agricultural activities with the help of my family members.” The demand for Rainbow Trout fish from his farm has been significant, with a local market preference, and all his fresh produce is eagerly purchased at a minimum rate of Rs. 500 per kg. Mohd Irfan has also expanded his market reach, selling trout fish in Jammu last year, gauging positive market response.
Appreciating the support from the District Administration, especially the Fisheries Department, Mohd Irfan expressed his gratitude for the financial and technical assistance provided. He emphasized the role of fish farming in meeting the local demand for fish in the Batote locality. Mohd Irfan’s success story goes beyond personal achievement, as he envisions expanding his trout fish farming business to generate job opportunities for other family members and local youth.
Appreciating the success of Mohammad Irfan, Deputy Commissioner, Ramban, Baseer-Ul-Haq Chaudhary directed the Fisheries Department to motivate youth of district Ramban to start their Fish Farming units, as the district has ample potential of Trout Fish Farming.
