Uttar Pradesh scales up fisheries sector through community water bodies

Uttar Pradesh is positioning fisheries as a key driver of rural livelihoods by systematically developing state-owned water resources for aquaculture. The initiative focuses on harnessing Gram Sabha ponds and river stretches to expand fish farming across villages.

According to state officials, more than 80,000 hectares of Gram Sabha ponds and 2,205 kilometres of rivers have been brought under leasing arrangements over the past eight years. This expansion of managed water bodies has directly contributed to a significant surge in fish production across the state.

Production figures underscore the scheme's impact. Fish output has more than doubled from 6.29 lakh tonnes to 15.90 lakh tonnes during the eight-year period, reflecting growing adoption of aquaculture practices in rural areas. The leap in production demonstrates the potential of decentralized, community-based water resource management for agricultural diversification.

The state government views the initiative as part of a broader strategy to strengthen rural incomes and reduce migration from villages. By enabling lease arrangements for Gram Sabha water bodies, authorities aim to create sustainable income opportunities for farming communities while making optimal use of existing water infrastructure.