Carp India

Carp farming in India is a cornerstone of inland aquaculture, contributing significantly to rural livelihoods and national fish production. It involves cultivating Indian major carps and exotic species using pond-based systems, often through composite fish culture.

• Dominant Role in Aquaculture: Carp farming accounts for over two-thirds of India’s inland aquaculture output, making it the most widely practiced form of fish farming in the country.

• Indian Major Carps (IMCs): The primary species include:

  • Catla (Catla catla) – surface feeder

  • Rohu (Labeo rohita) – column feeder

  • Mrigal (Cirrhinus mrigala) – bottom feeder

• Exotic Carps: Introduced species like Common carp (Cyprinus carpio), Silver carp, and Grass carp are also cultivated to enhance productivity and diversify feeding niches.

• Composite Fish Culture: This method involves stocking multiple carp species with complementary feeding habits in the same pond to maximize resource use and yield. It’s also known as polyculture or intensive fish farming.

• Pond Management: Farmers use earthen ponds, tanks, or cages, depending on available resources. Proper pond preparation, water quality management, and stocking density are critical for success.

• Nutrition and Health: Feed management includes natural pond productivity and supplementary feeding. Disease prevention and regular monitoring are essential for sustainable production.

• Rural Employment: Carp farming is a major source of income and employment in rural India, especially in states like West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, and Bihar.

• Market Demand: Carps are in high demand due to their affordability, taste, and protein content. They are sold fresh, frozen, or processed, with robust domestic consumption and growing export potential.

• Yield Potential: Well-managed systems can produce up to 3,000 kg/ha/year, with some intensive setups exceeding this benchmark.

• Institutions like the Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (CIFA) and various state fisheries universities support carp farming through breeding programs, training, and extension services.

• Innovations in genetic improvement, feed formulation, and biosecurity are helping modernize the sector.

• Carp farming aligns with India’s goals for food security, nutritional improvement, and sustainable rural development. With climate-resilient practices and better infrastructure, it holds promise for expansion and modernization.

Carp Farming in India

Bharat Matsya

RJ Fish Seed

Kailash Fisheries

Pioneer - consultants

Ali Fishery

Bangla Krishi

M M Hatcheries - Tilapia

Megha