India’s river systems are not just water channels but lifelines of biodiversity and livelihoods. Among them, the River Ganga has historically supported one of the richest inland fisheries in the world. However, decades of pollution, habitat degradation, altered river flows, and overfishing have severely depleted its native fish populations.
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Under the Namami Gange Programme, the ICAR–Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CIFRI) has implemented scientific river ranching to restore indigenous fish stocks while maintaining ecological balance and genetic integrity.
What is Scientific River Ranching?
Scientific river ranching refers to the planned release of native fish seeds into natural river systems based on ecological assessment, genetic safeguards, and long-term monitoring. Unlike conventional stocking, it focuses on ecosystem restoration rather than short-term production gains.
Scale of Intervention (2017–2025)
- 169 river ranching programmes conducted
- 205.5 lakh indigenous fish seeds released
- Coverage across ecologically critical stretches of Ganga and tributaries
- Implemented under the Namami Gange Programme
State-wise Distribution of Ranching Programmes
| State | Percentage |
|---|---|
| West Bengal | 68% |
| Bihar | 17% |
| Uttar Pradesh | 9% |
| Jharkhand | 5% |
| Uttarakhand | 1% |
The higher concentration in West Bengal reflects intense fishing pressure and the ecological importance of the lower Ganga stretches.
Indigenous Species Focus
The programme prioritized native species conservation, including:
- Indian Major Carps (IMCs)
- Mahseer
- Native Catfishes
- Chitala
- Freshwater Scampi
Fingerlings measuring 10–15 cm (100–120 grams) were released to improve survival rates. Seeds were artificially bred from wild brooders collected directly from the Ganga to safeguard native genetic lines.
Measurable Gains
- Prayagraj: 24.7% increase in Indian Major Carp landings
- Varanasi: 41% increase in Indian Major Carp landings
In a landmark development, ICAR-CIFRI estimated annual fish catches in major rivers:
- Mahanadi – 15,134 tonnes
- Krishna – 18,902 tonnes
Hilsa Restoration Breakthrough
- Artificial breeding of Hilsa using cryopreserved milt (2025)
- 3.82 lakh adult Hilsa released upstream of Farakka Barrage
- 6031 fishes tagged for scientific tracking
- 54.91 lakh fertilized eggs released
- 8.06 lakh Hilsa spawn released
These efforts aim to revive migratory fish populations and strengthen natural recruitment in the Ganga basin.
India’s Global Standing in Inland Fisheries
India has become the world’s largest producer of inland capture fisheries with an annual production of 1.89 million tonnes, surpassing China.
Estuary & Wetland Management
Sustainable management protocols were developed for:
- Hooghly–Matlah Estuary
- Rushikulya Estuary
- Mandovi–Zuari Estuary
- Netravathi–Gurupur Estuary
- Three major brackishwater lakes
Reservoir productivity increased from 20 to 150 kg/ha/year, while wetland productivity rose from 600 to 1,600 kg/ha/year. These efforts culminated in the National Reservoir Fisheries Management Policy Guidelines (2025).
Technology & Innovation in Fisheries Governance
- Indian Inland Fisheries Informatics (INNF) – Cloud-based decision platform
- RiverAquaMap – Integrates CPCB water quality data with habitat suitability mapping
- IoT-based monitoring of DO, ammonia and turbidity
- Drone and ROV-based fish behaviour studies
- Development of cage culture technologies and balanced fish feeds
Institutional Background
Established in March 1947 at Barrackpore, West Bengal, ICAR-CIFRI is India’s premier inland fisheries research institute. The institute integrates sustainability, conservation, livelihood security and policy support in inland fisheries governance.
Conclusion: Why This Matters for UPSC & State PCS
Scientific river ranching under the Namami Gange Programme demonstrates that depleted native fish stocks can be replenished without compromising ecological integrity. The initiative highlights the importance of evidence-based policy, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable development.
For UPSC and State PCS aspirants, this topic is highly relevant for:
- GS Paper III – Environment & Ecology
- Agriculture & Fisheries
- Biodiversity Conservation
- Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The future of the River Ganga’s biodiversity depends not on one-time stocking drives but on sustained scientific stewardship and adaptive governance.
Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB), Government of India.
Disclaimer: This content is intended solely for educational and informational purposes. While based on official sources, no legal liability is assumed for accuracy or completeness. Readers should verify details from original government publications.
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