Top 10 fish farming states in India: Largest fish-producing states

From 95.79 lakh tonnes in 2013‑14 to 197.75 lakh tonnes in 2024‑25, the Indian fishing industry has seen massive growth. It is now the mainstream industry, and many states are playing a key role to strengthen this sector. 

Today, we will talk about the top 10 fish farming states in India. 

What is Fish Farming? 

Fish farming is the practice of raising fish in controlled water bodies like ponds, tanks, rivers, and coastal areas for commercial purposes. It is also known as aquaculture. 

Top 10 Fish-Producing States in India

Rank	State	Production (Million MT)	Share
1	Andhra Pradesh	5	25.64%
2	West Bengal	2	10.26%
3	Karnataka	1	5.13%
4	Odisha	0.92	4.72%
5	Gujarat	0.88	4.53%
6	Tamil Nadu	0.88	4.53%
7	Chhattisgarh	0.7	3.59%
8	Kerala	0.69	3.51%
9	Uttar Pradesh	0.55	2.82%
10	Assam	0.45	2.31%

1. Andhra Pradesh 

India's largest fish-producing state, with 5 million metric tons annually. 

• Accounts for nearly 70% of India's shrimp exports. 
• Key species include shrimp, rohu, and catla.

2. West Bengal 

The second largest producer with 2 million metric tons.

• The state's vast network of rivers, ponds, and wetlands supports large-scale fish farming. 
• Hilsa and carp are the most popular species.

3. Karnataka

66% of Karnataka's production comes from marine fishing along the Arabian Sea.

• Total production crossed 12.25 lakh metric tonnes as of 2023. 
• Popular species include Bangude, Boothayi, and Kane.

4. Odisha 

Produced 8.73 lakh metric tonnes in recent years. 

• The fisheries sector contributes 2.33% to the state economy and is growing at 13% annually. 
• Key species include rohu, hilsa, and prawns.

5. Gujarat 

Contributes 20% of India's total marine fish production.

• Known for open-sea cage farming and exports. 
• Key species include shrimp and pomfret.

6. Tamil Nadu 

Produced 8.83 lakh metric tonnes in 2023-24.

• Has a large coastline with active fishing communities. 
• Sardines, mackerel, and tuna are key species found. 

7. Chhattisgarh 

A landlocked state that uses 92% of its pond systems for fish culture.

• Employs over 2 lakh people in fisheries and aquaculture. 
• Strong focus on inland fish production makes it a leader in freshwater farming.

8. Kerala 

Home to 905 fish species across inland and marine waters. 

• Annual production reaches approximately 9.21 lakh metric tons.
• Karimeen is a highly valued local species. 

9. Uttar Pradesh 

• UP produces over 5.5 lakh metric tonnes using rivers and ponds. 
• Holds a strong position in inland fish production and supports significant rural employment.

10. Assam 

Produces 4.5 lakh metric tonnes from rivers and wetlands. 

• Fisheries provide critical nutrition and income in the Northeast. 

What Are the Top Fish Species Produced in India?

Here is a list of the top fish species produced in India. 

• Rohu and Catla: Freshwater species and river fish that have a high demand across North and East India
• Shrimp: Fish species having the highest export value,
• Hilsa: Fish species having a premium with a premium market price
• Sardines and Mackerel: Major species in Tamil Nadu and Kerala
• Pomfret: A popular fish species in Gujarat and Maharashtra coastal markets

What Are the Benefits of Fish Farming for Farmers?

• Farmers can enjoy multiple benefits by being engaged in fish farming. 
• They can earn stable income throughout the year, as fish farming is not seasonal. 
• Farmers can combine fish farming with their main farming, such as rice farming. Thai way, they can be involved in two types of farming using the same land. 
• Fish has a high export value. This means it has a high earning potential. 

Which Government Schemes Support Fish Farming in India?

• Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY): PMMSY is the largest fisheries scheme implemented in India. The scheme mainly supports hatcheries, cold storage, and fish seed production. 
• Kisan Credit Card Scheme for Fisheries: The Kisan Credit Card (KCC) provides aquaculture farmers with access to low-interest working capital loans via the Kisan Credit Card Facility.
• Fish Pond Scheme (Odisha): The Fish Pond Scheme is a state government initiative aimed at promoting pond-based aquaculture among small and marginal farmers in Odisha. 

Conclusion:

Fish farming in India is no longer limited to coastal areas only. Many states, from coastal to inland, are playing a key role to boost the fish production in India. 

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