A two-day training program on the induced breeding of Indian Magur fish recently unfolded in Golaghat, Assam, funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), India. Spearheaded by Dr. Mrigakhi Borah, DST Women’s Scientist-B, under the mentorship of Dr. Ashalata Devi, Professor at the Department of Environmental Science, Tezpur University, the program aimed to boost entrepreneurship among the unemployed men and women in the villages of Golaghat district.
A total of 22 participants from 10 different villages actively engaged in learning the intricacies of induced breeding techniques for the Indian Magur fish. Dr. Rimen Bordoloi, retired Professor of Golaghat Debraj Roy College, served as the resource person, imparting valuable knowledge to the participants.
Dr. Borah emphasized the significance of the training program, stating, “The aim is to encourage self-employment opportunities in magur seed production through induced breeding techniques, addressing the absence of commercial seed production of indigenous magur in Assam. This not only opens avenues for income generation but also contributes to the conservation of this nutritionally rich fish species, threatened by invasive magur (Clariasgariepinus).”
Highlighting the urgency of induced breeding, Dr. Bordoloi remarked, “The availability of indigenous magur fish is decreasing, making induced breeding crucial for the species’ survival. The training program couldn’t have come at a more opportune time.” He emphasized the potential for magur seed markets, presenting a viable alternative livelihood for unemployed youths.
Upon completion of the training, participants were equipped with ‘Ovafish hormonesso’ to initiate their own induced breeding trials within the current breeding season. The successful training program lays the foundation for sustainable aquaculture practices, empowering local communities and contributing to the preservation of indigenous fish species.
