Maharashtra government to promote aquaculture with aquarium hub at Kopholi

To tap the growing domestic and international market for ornamental and aquarium fish, the Maharashtra government, in a step to promote aquaculture of these exotic breeds, is starting an aquarium hub in Khopoli for private breeders, and an ornamental fish breeding centre of its own near Pune.

“Aquarium culture is on the rise among the higher middle class and even in premium properties like five-star hotels. The international market is also growing,” said a senior official from the state fisheries department, adding that India, however lagged behind in the sector. “Most of the exotic fishes in Maharashtra are sourced from cities like Kolkata and Chennai, and are of the carp and gold fish variety," he said.

M. B Gaikwad, commissioner of fisheries, Maharashtra, told dna that the domestic market for aquarium and ornamental fish was dominated by southern states. In Maharashtra, a few ornamental fish farms were operational on co-operative basis at sites like the Dimbhe dam, Mahad, Vasai and Khopoli. Some of these had local Katkari tribals as members.

He said that an 'aquarium hub' was being planned at Khopoli, wherein “ideal conditions will be created to encourage breeders to start aquaculture units there.” It will not only increase production but ensure quality control, he added, stating that entrepreneurs could also apply for aid under various schemes. 

This will ensure competitive pricing to help breeders hold their own in the international market as well as generate employment opportunities.

“We are planning to start an ornamental fish breeding centre at our fish feed farm at Manjri in Pune,” said Gaikwad, adding that this would be the first project by the state government. “We will also train people there in breeding ornamental fish… to create private entrepreneurs,” he added.

“While demand for ornamental fish is increasing… the major problem is fish feed,” noted Swapnil Penkar of Aakaar Aquarium Private Limited, which deals in breeding and trading of ornamental fish, adding that this shortage of fish feed was causing problems for breeders.