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River Ranching Programme by ICAR-CIFRI : Restoring Ganga’s Fish Diversity

25^th March, 2025
In a significant step towards the conservation of aquatic biodiversity and the restoration of the Ganga River, the ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, successfully executed a River Ranching Programme at College Ghat, Beharampur, Murshidabad, West Bengal.

This initiative aligns with the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India, under the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG). The programme witnessed the active participation of project scientists, project members of ICAR-CIFRI, and 35 fishers from the region. Discussions revolved around the achievements of the Namami Gange initiative in recent years and the identification of future challenges and areas of focus. Dr. Basanta Kumar Das, Principal Investigator and Director of ICAR-CIFRI, provided insights into the latest conservation efforts under the Namami Gange Programme and emphasized the successes achieved in the previous Phase III project.

A major highlight of the event was the release of more than 1,75,000 Indian Major Carps (IMC), including Rohu, Catla, and Mrigal, along with Labeo bata (Bata), into the Ganga River. This strategic move aims to enhance fish diversity, improve fish production, and contribute to the river’s ecological balance.

The Honourable Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, initiated the National Mission for Clean Ganga to protect and rejuvenate the Ganga River and its aquatic life. The initiative aims to bridge the gap between Artha Ganga (economic benefits from the river) and Nirmal Ganga (clean and pollution-free river). Fish species such as Rohu, Catla, and Mrigal play a vital role in maintaining the cleanliness of the river as they feed on organic matter, thereby contributing to a healthier aquatic ecosystem.

ICAR-CIFRI remains committed to continuing its conservation efforts for the Ganga River, ensuring sustainable fishery management and ecological preservation. The River Ranching Programme marks yet another milestone in the ongoing mission to restore the natural habitat of aquatic species and promote sustainable fisheries in the region