Gujarat Government Chooses the Ghol as the State Fish

November 23, 2023

In a significant move, the Gujarat government has selected the ghol as its official state fish, emphasizing both its economic importance and distinctiveness. This decision is part of the state’s commitment to contribute to the conservation of this rare fish species, primarily found in the vast Indo-Pacific region extending from the Persian Gulf to the Pacific Ocean.

Alternatives Considered

Before finalizing the ghol as the state fish, a consultative process involving representatives from all districts considered other contenders. Ribbon fish, pomfret, and Bombay Duck were among the species evaluated for the prestigious designation.

Understanding the Economic Significance

Although not widely consumed locally due to its high cost, the ghol holds substantial commercial importance. Experts reveal that the fish commands a significant market share in China and various other countries. Fishermen consider catching the ghol a lucrative endeavor, given its status as a delicacy in many places and its medicinal uses in some cultures.

The Ghol’s Market Presence

The ghol’s meat is exported as frozen fillet or whole fish to European and Middle-Eastern countries. Its dried air bladder, extracted from the stomach, is particularly sought after in China, Hong Kong, and other Asian nations due to its medicinal properties. The air bladder alone can fetch impressive amounts, reaching as high as Rs25,000 per kilogram in the export market.

Economic Impact on Fishermen

The economic allure of the ghol is evident in its market prices. In Gujarat, a kilogram of ghol can fetch anywhere between Rs5,000 to Rs15,000. The dried air bladder, being the most expensive component, contributes significantly to the export revenue. According to Visavadia, a single ghol fish can weigh as much as 25 kilograms, making each catch a potentially lucrative endeavor for local fishermen.

Gujarat’s Fish Export Landscape

In the fiscal year 2021-22, Gujarat recorded a total fish production of 8.74 lakh tonnes, valued at Rs 11,221 crore. Of this, 2.3 lakh tonnes of fish and fish products, worth Rs 5,233 crore, were exported. This underscores the vital role of the fishing industry in Gujarat’s economy and highlights the significance of the ghol’s inclusion as the state fish.

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