IMPHAL, July 28: The directorate of fisheries, Manipur, has taken up River Ranching programme in 12 major rivers viz, Imphal, Nambul, Thoubal, Nambol, Barak, Chakpi, Iril, Irang, Makru, Khuga, Maha and Sekmai in 7 districts of Manipur by liberating Indian Major carp (Rohu, Mrigal and Catla) and indigenous fish species (Pengba, Ngaton and Khabak).
The National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB), Hyderabad has sponsored the programme which is a component of PMMSY scheme. River Ranching is conducted with the objective of addressing the depleted fish stocks in rivers and improvement of livelihood of fishers of the State.
The first ranching was commenced from July 20, 2024 in Imphal River and Nambul River in Imphal East and Imphal West districts.
Local MLA of Chandel assembly constituency, SS. Olish conducted the river ranching programme at Chakpi River on July 21 in the presence of District Level Officers and tribal chiefs of various hill villages.
In Ukhrul district, IMC and indigenous fish species have been liberated in Thoubal River originating from Ukhrul district on July 24.
Similar programmes were also organised at Barak River and and other river rivers in Senapati district and Khuga River in Churachandpur district on July 25 respectively. As on date, more than 10 lakh fish fingerlings have been liberated.
Speaking about the programme, State fisheries director, H. Balkrisna Singh said that the target for river ranching is about 30 lakh fingerlings and is being continued in major rivers located in Imphal East, Bishnupur, Thoubal, Kakching, Chandel and Tamenglong districts and culminate by the end of July, 2024. (NNN)