elebrating the essence of World Wetlands Day 2024, the ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CIFRI) embarked on a journey to promote sustainable wetland practices for the enhancement of human well-being. The event, held on February 2nd, witnessed a confluence of experts, policymakers, and fishers, converging to champion the cause of wetland conservation and sustainable utilization.
Inaugurating the festivities, Dr. B K Das, Director of ICAR-CIFRI, extended a warm welcome to esteemed guests and fish farmers, setting the stage for an enlightening discourse on wetland fisheries development. The significance of wetlands in fostering ecological resilience and supporting rural livelihoods took centre stage, with Dr. Sandeep Behera, Senior Consultant of Biodiversity at NMCG, highlighting the pivotal role of ICAR-CIFRI in advancing wetland conservation efforts.
Praising the institute’s relentless endeavours, Professor (Dr.) B B Jana from the University of Kalyani and Professor (Dr.) Ashis Kumar Panigrahi, Pro-Vice Chancellor of the University of Burdwan, underscored the imperative of wetland preservation for sustaining human well-being. Dr. Soma Mukherjee, Head of the Department of Environmental Science at the University of Kalyani, emphasized the multifaceted benefits of wetlands, accentuating their indispensable role in promoting human welfare.
The technical session unfolded a tapestry of insights, with experts from NMCG, academic institutions, and CIFRI shedding light on wetland conservation strategies and sustainable utilization practices. Dr. Das delineated the institute’s pioneering efforts in wetland fisheries development, illuminating the symbiotic relationship between wetlands and human well-being.
The ensuing panel discussion provided a platform for stakeholders to deliberate on challenges and propose strategies for the sustainable development of wetlands. The exchange of ideas culminated in a holistic understanding of the intricate balance required to safeguard wetland ecosystems while meeting the needs of local communities.
An integral facet of the celebration was the interaction between scientists and fishers from six wetlands of West Bengal, fostering knowledge exchange and mutual learning. Dr. Das announced the adoption of ten new wetlands, accompanied by capacity-building initiatives and the provision of fishing equipment, including Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP) fishing boats and CIFRI HDPE pens, to fishers from four wetlands.
This gesture underscored ICAR-CIFRI’s commitment to supporting sustainable fishing practices and empowering fishers for the stewardship of wetland resources. As the workshop drew to a close, participants departed with a renewed sense of purpose, fortified in their resolve to preserve and harness the invaluable treasures of wetlands for the collective well-being of ecosystems and communities alike.
