ICAR-CIFRI and Meghalaya Fisheries Dept promote ornamental fish-keeping in schools

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaMay 10, 2025

The ICAR-CIFRI (Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute) Regional Centre, Guwahati, in collaboration with the Department of Fisheries, Government of Meghalaya, organized a one-day awareness-cum-input distribution programme on May 8 to promote ornamental fisheries and aquarium fish-keeping among school students.

Held at the Meghalaya State Fisheries Research and Training Institute, Mawpun, Ri-Bhoi District, the programme saw the participation of 50 schools—25 each from East Khasi Hills and Ri-Bhoi. The event was chaired by S.K. Majhi, Principal Scientist and Head, ICAR-CIFRI RC, Guwahati.

The programme included discussions and live demonstrations on ornamental fisheries. Experts such as Dr. Pronob Das, Senior Scientist, Dr. Simanku Borah, Scientist, and A. Kakati, Technical Officer, from ICAR-CIFRI RC, Guwahati, addressed the importance of ornamental fish culture.

Officials from the state fisheries department, including M.A. Khongjliw, Superintendent of Fisheries, Nongpoh, P.S. Suting, Principal, MSFR&TI, Mawpun, and P. Lyngdoh, Fishery Officer, East Khasi Hills, encouraged schools to explore vocational opportunities in ornamental fish-keeping. They also highlighted the potential for entrepreneurship, conservation, and sustainable development in this sector.

The programme’s success was attributed to the leadership and support of the Director of Fisheries, A.L. Mawlong, Director of CIFRI, B.K. Das, the Ri-Bhoi District Administration, and district education officers of both East Khasi Hills and Ri-Bhoi.

Each participating school received a complete aquarium set at the end of the event.