Trout farmers in Kashmir: Socio-Economic Characteristics and Training Participation

Trout culture represents a key cold-water aquaculture activity in Kashmir, offering scope for livelihood diversification and sustainable rural development. This study examines the socio-economic characteristics of trout farmers in Kashmir and their implications for aquaculture development. Based on primary data collected from sampled farmers, the analysis employs descriptive statistical techniques. The results indicate that trout farming is largely practiced by middle-aged farmers, with a mean age of 43 years. While education and farming experience vary, most farmers possess adequate formal schooling and an average of nine years of experience, enabling effective engagement in trout cultivation. Trout farming contributes significantly to household income but generally remains a supplementary livelihood source. Access to extension services is uneven, with many farmers located more than 20 km from extension offices, and participation in training programmes is moderate. The study highlights the need for strengthened extension outreach and targeted capacity-building initiatives to support the sustainable growth of trout aquaculture in the region.