Ganga Aarti at Belur Math Highlights Ganga Innovation Meet 2026.

Belur Math, West Bengal; January 2026: The Ganga Innovation Meet 2026, organised by the ICAR–Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CIFRI) in association with Belur Math under the Namami Gange Programme, marked a rare confluence of science, society and spirituality on the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti and the 88th foundation day of Belur Math.

This was a notable and potentially unprecedented event because such an official government process was conducted within the monastic boundary, which typically maintains a distinct sphere of operation guided by its own trust and rules established by Swami Vivekananda in 1901. However, the monastic response was overwhelming, as the proceedings drew significant attention within the monastic community, with many monks participating in CIFRI’s endeavour to ensure a hinder less ranching process.

The day began with a river ranching programme, reiterating ICAR-CIFRI’s sustained efforts to enhance native fish stocks and restore riverine biodiversity. The activity demonstrated science-led conservation in action, offering students and stakeholders practical insights into how systematic release of quality fish seed supports ecological balance, fisheries sustainability and long-term river health.

This was followed by technical sessions where scientists and experts presented research on biodiversity conservation, sustainable fisheries, river ecology and community-centric management. The deliberations highlighted interventions under the National Mission for Clean Ganga, emphasising the translation of scientific knowledge into field-level solutions that strengthen both ecosystems and the livelihoods of river-dependent communities.

The emotional and symbolic high point on the day of Makar Sankranti was the Ganga Aarti at the historic Belur Math. Held on the banks of the Hooghly in the presence of Swami Gautamananda Maharaj, ICAR-CIFRI Director Dr. B.K. Das and other dignitaries, the Aarti underscored reverence for the Ganga as a living entity and cultural lifeline for millions.

The presence of all the monks of Belur Math along with large numbers of devotees and visitors made the programme especially eventful and spiritually elevating. The serene atmosphere, devotional chants and collective participation of scientists, students, administrators and the public transformed the ceremony into a shared expression of gratitude and responsibility toward the river.

The event highlighted that sustainable river rejuvenation demands not only scientific intervention and policy support but also ethical responsibility, cultural sensitivity and active public engagement. By integrating spiritual reverence with scientific commitment, the Ganga Innovation Meet 2026 reinforced a holistic approach to conservation, reaffirming ICAR-CIFRI’s leadership in biodiversity restoration, Hilsa conservation and sustainable fisheries development in the Ganga basin. Team Maverick.