Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Rajiv Ranjan Singh, on 02 July, 2025 announced that the Central Government is considering a Rs 100 crore proposal to establish an Integrated Aqua Park in Jammu and Kashmir under Phase-II of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). The park aims to serve as a national model for cold-water aquaculture, leveraging the region’s natural potential.

The Minister highlighted that flagship schemes such as the Blue Revolution, the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF), and PMMSY have significantly strengthened the fisheries sector in Jammu and Kashmir. Under PMMSY, the Centre has committed Rs 852 crore for Himalayan and North Eastern states, including Rs 300 crore specifically earmarked for J&K, to enhance fish production, infrastructure, and generate employment opportunities.

Recognising J&K’s suitability for cold-water fisheries, the Ministry has designated Anantnag as a Cold-Water Fisheries Cluster, with Kulgam and Shopian as partner districts. The initiative aims to build an integrated value chain, ensuring sustainable livelihoods for local communities. This reaffirms the Centre’s focus on holistic rural development, farmer empowerment, and building a self-reliant India through targeted investments and infrastructure in the fisheries sector.