NEWS: Inland fish production in Karnataka fell by 13.4% in one year due to water scarcityà Officials warn of a further decline due to drought conditions.

Highlights

• Inland fish production fell 4% in one year due to water scarcity.
• Production declined from 4.49 lakh tonnes (2024–25) to 3.89 lakh tonnes (2025–26) — lowest in 5 years.
• Vijayapura recorded the highest production: 34,113 tonnes.
• Major sources: Almatti reservoir, other reservoirs, tanks and gram panchayat ponds.
• Around 160 fish-rearing lakes were affected by drought.
• Marine fish production increased by 29%.

Significance

• Threatens fishermen’s livelihoods and rural incomes.
• Highlights the vulnerability of inland fisheries to drought and climate change.
• Reduced fish availability can affect food and nutritional security.
• Calls for water conservation, sustainable fisheries management and climate-resilient aquaculture.