In a significant move aimed at enhancing aquatic biodiversity and improving the livelihoods of local fishermen, the Fisheries Department launched a River Ranching program in Bhojpur district on Saturday. As part of the initiative, around four lakh fingerlings of specially bred fish species were released into the Ganga River at Mahuli Ghat in the Barhara block. This initiative aligns with the Bihar government’s ambitious Saat Nischay-2 program.
The fingerlings, comprising different species of fish, were bred at a state-of-the-art five-star fish hatchery located in Ranigaon village, Bhojpur district. This facility ensures high-quality breeding of fish, which are nurtured for about three months before being released into natural water bodies. The concept of River Ranching, a sustainable aquaculture practice, involves releasing young fish into rivers, where they grow to maturity in their natural habitat. Once fully grown, these fish are harvested, benefiting local fishermen economically while simultaneously contributing to ecological sustainability.
Benefits of the Program
Bhojpur District Magistrate Tanai Sultania outlined the multiple advantages of the River Ranching initiative. Speaking at the launch, he said, “This initiative will not only enhance the fish population in the Ganga River but also provide significant employment opportunities for fishermen and others involved in the fisheries trade. Moreover, the increased fish population will aid in maintaining the river’s biodiversity and contribute to its cleanliness by feeding on organic remnants, which helps reduce habitat degradation.”
The program also aligns with the broader goals of environmental conservation. By focusing on sustainable fish production, it aims to strike a balance between ecological health and economic growth. The district administration hopes that such efforts will transform Bhojpur into a model district for aquaculture development.
Boost to Rural Economy and Fisheries Sector
According to fisheries officials, the River Ranching program is poised to play a crucial role in increasing fish production in Bhojpur. This, in turn, is expected to strengthen the rural economy by boosting incomes for those dependent on fishing and allied activities. With the adoption of scientific fish farming techniques, the program ensures that local fishermen have access to a reliable and sustainable source of livelihood.
The Fisheries Department has further emphasized that the program will benefit not just fishermen but also those involved in the processing, marketing, and distribution of fish. Additionally, it aims to rejuvenate the ecological balance of the Ganga River, which plays a pivotal role in the lives of millions across the region.
A Step Towards Sustainability
River Ranching is more than just an aquaculture practice; it is a comprehensive approach to environmental sustainability and rural development. By focusing on breeding high-quality fingerlings and releasing them into the Ganga River, the program seeks to address multiple issues, including declining fish populations, habitat degradation, and economic hardships faced by fishermen.
This launch is expected to inspire similar initiatives across other districts of Bihar, setting a precedent for innovative and sustainable aquaculture practices in the region. With government support and the active involvement of the local community, River Ranching holds the potential to transform Bhojpur into a hub for fisheries development, ensuring long-term benefits for both people and the environment.
The Fisheries Department has expressed confidence in the program’s success and pledged continued efforts to promote sustainable fisheries practices under the Saat Nischay-2 initiative. This move signals a brighter future for aquaculture in Bihar and the preservation of its vital water resources.
