There is a growing interest in entrepreneurship in India, especially among the younger generation, who prefer to engage in business rather than seek employment. In this regard, a line of business has been presented that can be combined with farming and which is capable of generating significant income. This business can even be started in rural areas.
This refers to fish farming. Due to the growing demand for fish in India, aquaculture has become an attractive earning opportunity. Farmers can increase their income by cultivating fish species such as Rohu, Catla, and Mrigal using scientific methods in ponds. ICAR studies have also shown examples of additional income from growing vegetables on the banks of ponds alongside fish farming.
Fish farming, or aquaculture, is a business that a farmer can start by creating a pond on their land or by using an existing one. A feature of this endeavor is the possibility of increasing profit not only through the sale of fish but also through growing fruits and vegetables on the pond banks.
India is the second-largest fish-producing country in the world. According to the central government, the volume of fish production grew from 95.79 million tons in 2013-14 to 197.75 million tons in 2024-25, representing an increase of about 106 percent. Approximately 3 million fishermen and fish farmers depend on this industry for their livelihood.
According to the government, domestic fish production also increased in 2024-25. Pond, lake, river, and other freshwater sources contributed significantly to this growth. This creates new opportunities for employment and business in villages.
Income from fish farming depends on the size of the pond, the type of fish cultivated, water quality, and the market selling price. In one ICAR study, an integrated farming model with a scientific approach was applied. With traditional methods, production was about 950 kg of fish per hectare, yielding a gross income of about 1.90 million rupees, and a net annual profit after deducting expenses was approximately 50,000 rupees.
When farmers began applying scientific fish farming methods, production increased to approximately 2,850 kg per hectare. Larger fish were sold at an average price of 240 rupees per kilogram, generating fish sales revenue of about 6.84 million rupees. Growing vegetables and fruits on the pond banks brought an additional income of about 95,000 rupees. The total net annual profit under this model was about 4.65 million rupees per hectare.
The main options for cultivating freshwater fish in ponds are Rohu, Catla, and Mrigal. The technology of simultaneously keeping these fish is called integrated fish farming. With this technique, different fish species utilize different feeding levels in the pond, allowing for more efficient use of water body resources.
Costs for fish farming depend on whether the farmer already has a pond or if they have to build a new one. Building a new pond involves costs for earth excavation, water supply, and necessary structures. Additionally, costs include fish seeds, feed, fertilizers, medicines, labor, and maintaining water quality.
NABARD's specific cost list for 2025-26 indicates a unit cost of 8.29 million rupees per hectare for integrated carp fish farming in a new pond. This is a standard cost set for banking and project analysis, but it does not mean that actual expenses will be the same everywhere.
If a farmer already has a pond, they will not have to bear the full construction cost, which can reduce initial investments. Nevertheless, a budget must be prepared for feed, seeds, maintenance, and other operational expenses.
The central government implements the 'Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana' (PMMSY) program to support fish farming. Under this program, assistance is provided for pond construction, fish production, modern technologies, feed mills, cold chains, and market services. Support is provided based on established costs and criteria for various activities. The subsidy amount may vary depending on the beneficiary category, project, and state rules. Therefore, before applying, it is important to obtain information on current guidelines and criteria from the local fisheries inspector.
Fish farming is also supported in Uttar Pradesh under this program. According to the central government's response from July 2026, funding of 1.294.32 billion rupees was approved for projects in the state's fisheries sector. These projects include pond development, scientific aquaculture, biofloc, RAS, and other amenities.
The following conditions are necessary: having sufficient water so that the pond remains watered year-round; selecting quality seeds acquired from a certified hatchery; managing feed, as excess or insufficient feed affects both production and costs; preventing diseases through regular monitoring of water quality and fish health; market knowledge, including establishing contacts with local markets, wholesalers, hotels, and retailers before releasing the fish; and expert consultation, as first-time business owners must undergo training at the fisheries department or agricultural science center.
The possibility of earning income also exists through the pond banks.
