Prayagraj: In a significant step toward the conservation and promotion of endangered fish species, the regional centre of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research - Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CIFRI), Prayagraj, released 5,000 fingerlings of Indian major carp fish - Catla, Rohu, and Mrigal - into the river Ganga on Friday. Indian Major Carps (IMC) are a group of highly prized, fast-growing freshwater fish native to the Indian subcontinent.
River Ranching as a Conservation Strategy
The Institute’s Centre head, Dr BR Chavan, emphasized that the initiative focused on river ranching as a vital mechanism to secure riverine ecology, sustainable agriculture, and the livelihoods of local farmers and fishermen. He highlighted critical challenges plaguing riverine ecosystems, including declining fish catches due to overfishing, pollution, and the introduction of exotic fish species that compete with native varieties for live food.
Benefits of Native Fish Species
As a solution, Dr Chavan advocated for river ranching—the targeted breeding and mass release of native fish fingerlings—to restore natural stock. He noted that native fish act as biological filters by consuming organic waste, thereby cleaning the river water. This, in turn, ensures chemical-free irrigation for healthier crops and stabilizes income for the fishing community. The initiative is expected to boost fish populations, improve water quality, and support sustainable agriculture along the Ganga basin.
