Shillong, Jul 28: Twenty-five tribal women fisher families received six cage nets at Umiam Reservoir on Tuesday at a programme organised by the ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Regional Centre Guwahati, in collaboration with the Ri-Bhoi Farmers’ Union (RFU) and the Meghalaya Department of Fisheries under the NEH & TSP programme of ICAR-CIFRI.
ICAR-CIFRI has developed cage culture technology for mid-altitude reservoirs of Northeast to promote sustainable fisheries. Officials said the initiative is expected to boost women-led fisheries, increase fish production, and encourage adoption of cage culture in other reservoirs in the region.
RFU President D. Majaw highlighted the long-standing collaboration between ICAR-CIFRI and RFU for tribal fishers. He lauded the successful cage culture trials at Umiam and the institute’s technical support.
Senior scientist Dr. Pronob Das briefed participants on cage culture practices and its potential for livelihood security, while Technical Officer A. Kakati explained management and precautionary measures.
Speaking for the beneficiaries, Banri L. Nongbri thanked ICAR-CIFRI for the input support and technical guidance, expressing hope the initiative would strengthen their incomes.
Officials said the distribution marks a step toward promoting women-led fisheries and sustainable aquaculture in mid-altitude reservoirs of Northeast India.
