To promote fish production, 5,000 Mahseer seeds released into Beas

The state Department of Fisheries released 5,000 Mahseer fish seeds into the Beas near Aut Bazaar in Mandi district yesterday. The initiative was carried out under the River Ranching Programme as part of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana.

The primary aim of the programme is to boost fish production and productivity in natural water bodies while ensuring sustainable livelihoods and higher income for local fishermen. The Mahseer, often called the Tiger of the River, is an important indigenous fish species known for its ecological and economic significance.

Shyam Lal Vaidya, up-pradhan of Aut gram panchayat; Nitin, member of the Trout Angling Association; Neetu Singh, Assistant Director (Fisheries), Mandi division; Mukesh Kumar, Fisheries Inspector, Mahseer Fish Farm, Machhyal; officials of the Fisheries Department, and local residents were present on the occasion.

The seeds were reared and collected at the Mahseer Fish Farm at Machhyal. The Assistant Director (Fisheries) said that the River Ranching Programme was crucial for maintaining ecological balance, conserving aquatic biodiversity and strengthening the fisheries sector. She added that such initiatives not only promoted environmental sustainability but also helped in improving the socio-economic conditions of local fishing communities.

The programme reflects the state government’s commitment to promoting sustainable aquaculture, biodiversity conservation and livelihood development in the riverine regions.