The Division of Animal & Fisheries Sciences, ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam conducted ranching of 5000 indigenous fish in the Umiam reservoir at Umniuh village to celebrate World Fisheries Day.
The programme was held on November 21 which was attended by 60 fisher folk community of residing near Umiam reservoir and fish farmer from different parts of Ri-Bhoi District.
Ranching of indigenous fish fingerling species of Catlacatla, Labeorohita and Labeogonius were done by Director, ICAR RC NEHR Dr. V.K. Mishra along with the farmers of Ri-Bhoi Farmers Association.
About 5000 fish fingerling were also distributed to 50 local fish farmers of the district at the programme.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Mishra highlighted the nutritional importance of fish and fish farming is an important source of income generation for the farmers. He laid emphasis on PM’s vision plan of doubling farmers’ income through systematic and integrated approaches. He assured all scientific and technical supports from ICAR NEH.
Dr. S.K. Das Head, Division of Animal and Fisheries Sciences in his welcome speech informed the participants about the importance of the day and interacted with the fishermen communities present there, he suggested them to follow scientific fishing method. He mentioned that, Umiam reservoir is a fish biodiversity hotspot from NE India which needs to be conserved and invigorated through community participation and ranching with quality fish seeds.
Dr. S. Hazarika, Head Division of System Research and Engineering and Nodal Officer, Tribal Sub Plan, highlighted the objectives of the TSP programme. He urged the farmers to protect the ecosystem of Umiam reservoir as it is the lifeline and source of income generation for them.
