Punjab Minister Gurmeet Singh Khudian names Rohu the State Fish to boost aquaculture, biodiversity, and the state’s growing fisheries sector.

Gurmeet Singh Khudian, the Minister of Punjab Animal Husbandry, Dairy Development, and Fisheries, announced that Rohu (Labeo Rohita) is the State Fish of Punjab. This is a major step in protecting and promoting the state’s aquatic biodiversity.

S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian highlighted the abundance of aquatic resources in the state, stating that the aquatic industry in Punjab is flourishing and that 43,683 acres are used for fish farming, producing 200,000 metric tonnes of fish yearly. Rohu is a major contributor, making up 42,353 metric tonnes (21.18% of total production) and selling for between Rs 160 and Rs 200 per kilogram. It is a highly valued fish with a fusiform body and massive cycloid scales that may reach a weight of 45 kg in its natural habitat.

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He went on to say that Rohu fish is a nutritional wonder that is high in proteins, vitamins A, B, and D, and omega-3 fatty acids. As a result, it is a popular delicacy in Punjab and other states.

While praising the significance of Indian Major Carps (IMCs)—Rohu, Catla, and Mrigal—S. Gurmeet Singh Khudian commended the Fisheries Department and stakeholders on announcing Rohu as the State Fish and acknowledged their contribution to the sector’s expansion.

Mr. Rahul Bhandari, the principal secretary, stated that the designation of Rohu as the State Fish will allow for the development of targeted policies to increase its population in water bodies and increase aquaculture production, which will support the state’s economy. He added that the Punjab government, led by Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann, has given 637 recipients options for self-employment in fish farming with a subsidy of Rs 30.63 crores, encouraging large-scale fish farming under the PMMSY initiative. This project intends to strengthen the state’s economy and support agriculture. Along with other senior department officials, Mr. Gurpreet Singh, Director of Fisheries, attended the event.