ICAR-CIFRI Leads Mega River Ranching Drive to Restore Ganga Biodiversity and Revive Native Fisheries in Nabadwip, West Bengal

May 2026 : In a major push towards restoring the ecological integrity of the River Ganga and revitalizing its native fisheries, the ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CIFRI) conducted a large-scale National River Ranching Programme on 29 May 2026  at Sawrupganj Ghat, Nabadwip, Nadia, under the flagship NamamiGange initiative.

The programme was conducted under the leadership of Dr.PradipDey, Director, ICAR-CIFRI, and guidance of Dr. S.K. Manna, Principal Coordinator of the NMCG Project, the programme marked a significant scientific intervention for rebuilding depleted fish populations and conserving indigenous aquatic biodiversity.

As part of the drive, nearly 50,000 fish fingerlings (about 265 kg) comprising Indian Major Carps—Rohu, Catla, Mrigal—and Bata were released into the River Ganga to enhance natural fish recruitment and strengthen the river’s ecological resilience.

Reflecting on the occasion, Dr. Dey underscored  river ranching as an important science-driven initiative for supporting native fish biodiversity, strengthening riverine ecosystem health, and enhancing the sustainability of livelihoods associated with inland fisheries. He acknowledged the significance of ongoing government efforts and emphasized the value of continued policy support, institutional coordination, and community participation in advancing ecological resilience and contributing towards a healthier and more vibrant Ganga ecosystem for future generations..

Sharing evidence of the programme’s impact, Dr. Manna noted that scientific stock enhancement interventions have already yielded remarkable results, with Indian Major Carp landings increasing by 24.7% at Prayagraj and 41% at Varanasi compared to 1959 levels, demonstrating the effectiveness of river ranching in restoring fisheries productivity.

The initiative forms part of ICAR-CIFRI’s broader river restoration mission under the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), through which the institute has achieved the landmark release of over one crore fish fingerlings across multiple states.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from local fishermen, stakeholders, and community members, underlining growing public commitment towards sustainable fisheries management and river conservation. Awareness programmes on responsible fishing practices and aquatic habitat protection were also organized.

The programme was coordinated by Dr. DibakarBhakta, Dr. Sajna A. M., Dr. Mitesh H. Ramteke, and Dr. Canciyal Johnson.

Team Maverick