ICAR-CIFRI Marks International Day for Biological Diversity 2026 with Major River Ranching Drive in Lower Ganga under NMCG Initiative

May 2026 : Commemorating the International Day for Biological Diversity 2026, ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CIFRI) organized a large-scale river ranching programme on 21 May 2026 at Daspara Ghat in the Lower Ganga under the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) Phase-III project, reinforcing its commitment to aquatic biodiversity conservation and sustainable riverine fisheries management.

The programme, led by Dr. S. K. Manna, Project Coordinator, NMCG Phase-III, was conducted in the distinguished presence of Dr. Pradip Dey, Director, ICAR-CIFRI. The event drew active participation from NMCG Co-Principal Investigators, divisional heads, centre in-charges, scientists, technical personnel, project scholars, administrative staff, field functionaries, and a large number of local fishers.

As part of the biodiversity conservation and stock enhancement initiative, around 250 kg of Indian Major Carp (IMC) fingerlings—including rohu, catla, mrigal, and bata—were released into the Lower Ganga. In total, nearly 35,000 fingerlings were ranched to replenish depleted fish stocks, revive native fish diversity, and strengthen ecological sustainability of the river ecosystem. The intervention represents a key component of habitat restoration and fisheries resource enhancement efforts being implemented under the NMCG programme.

Observed globally under the theme “Acting Locally for Global Impact”, the International Day for Biological Diversity 2026 underscores the urgency of localized action for safeguarding ecosystems and biological resources. In this context, the River Ranching programme jointly advanced by NMCG and ICAR-CIFRI has emerged as a significant science-driven initiative for restoring aquatic biodiversity and ecological balance in the Ganga basin.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Pradip Dey, Director, ICAR-CIFRI, emphasized that conservation of aquatic biodiversity must be integrated with national river restoration and livelihood policies. He remarked, “The Ganga is not only a river of immense cultural significance but also a vital ecological and economic lifeline. Scientific river ranching under the NMCG framework demonstrates how research-driven interventions can translate policy objectives into measurable ecological outcomes. By replenishing native fish stocks, enhancing biodiversity, and supporting sustainable fisheries, such initiatives contribute directly to India’s broader agenda of ecosystem restoration, blue economy development, and livelihood resilience. Sustained investment in science, community engagement, and institutional partnerships will be pivotal in securing the future health and productivity of the Ganga river system.”

The programme reaffirmed ICAR-CIFRI’s continued commitment to the conservation, restoration, and sustainable management of the Ganga riverine ecosystem through science-led interventions, strategic partnerships, and participatory fisheries governance. By advancing evidence-based approaches to aquatic resource management and ecosystem restoration under the NMCG framework, the institute continues to support national priorities on river rejuvenation, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable inland fisheries development.

Team Maverick