India Sets Aquaculture Milestone with Largest Inland Rainbow Trout Farm in Telangana

India Launches Largest Integrated Inland Rainbow Trout Farm in Telangana

In a landmark development for inland aquaculture, India has inaugurated its largest integrated inland Rainbow Trout farm in Telangana’s Ranga Reddy district. The facility, inaugurated by Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying,  Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh , and Union Minister for Coal and Mines,  Shri G. Kishan Reddy , marks a significant technological breakthrough in culturing cold-water fish outside traditional Himalayan regions.

A Pioneering Venture on the Deccan Plateau
Developed by the startup  SmartGreen Aquaculture  with an investment of approximately  ₹50 crore , the farm is designed to raise  Rainbow Trout —a species that thrives in cold water—under controlled conditions on the warm Deccan Plateau. This achievement is made possible through advanced engineering systems that meticulously regulate water temperature, oxygen levels, and circulation, overcoming the region's climatic constraints.

Overcoming Traditional Geographic Limits
Historically, trout farming in India has been confined to high-altitude, cold-water states such as Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir. The successful establishment of this farm in Telangana demonstrates a significant technological shift, proving that geographic and climatic barriers can be addressed through innovation. This model is expected to pave the way for similar ventures in other non-traditional regions across the country.

Boosting Fisheries, Startup Ecosystem, and Exports
During the inauguration, Union Minister Rajiv Ranjan Singh emphasized that the project aligns with the government's focus on modernizing fisheries and encouraging private investment. He assured full support for trout exports through the  National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) , highlighting the growing global demand for high-value cold-water fish species.

Significance for Aquaculture Growth and Food Security
Officials noted that the integrated farm model—combining breeding, rearing, and processing at a single site—enhances efficiency and reduces operational costs. The project is anticipated to generate employment, promote technology-driven aquaculture, and diversify India’s fish production portfolio. If replicated, such initiatives could strengthen food security, increase farmer incomes, and position India as an exporter of premium inland fish varieties.

Important Facts for Examinations:

• Rainbow Trout  is a high-value cold-water fish species.

• Traditional trout farming in India is limited to  Himalayan states .

• The  National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB)  promotes fisheries development and exports.

• Telangana is located on the  Deccan Plateau .

• The project represents a major step in  climate-resilient and technology-driven aquaculture .