An awareness programme-cum-fish ranching was held at Aghakupu, Doyang river under Zunheboto–Wokha District on 18 June 2025. The event was organised by the department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (FAR) with the objective of promoting sustainable fishing practices, enhancing fish population, and preserving aquatic biodiversity.
The programme was graced by principal secretary Law and Justice and FAR Y Kikheto Sema, who emphasised the urgent need for communities to adopt conservation-focused mindsets. Addressing local concerns regarding the decline in forest cover due to traditional fishing practices involving tree cutting, he firmly urged the discontinuation of such outdated customs.
Drawing a powerful comparison, the bureaucrat stated that just as headhunting had been abandoned, so too must environmentally harmful practices be left behind.
Highlighting the economic impact of meat import dependency, Sema noted that Nagas spend heavily on meat products sourced from outside the state. He stressed that this dependency is economically and ecologically unsustainable and called for a collective push towards increasing local meat and fish production.
The official further appealed to the community to cease the hunting of wild animals for consumption or ceremonial gifting, advocating for environmental preservation as a shared responsibility.
In a positive response, local community leaders pledged to avoid the use of harmful fishing practices, including the use of batteries and toxic substances, and to prioritise the protection of aquatic life during breeding seasons.
Director FAR, Rongsennungba highlighted the scientific importance of fish ranching as a sustainable fisheries management strategy. He explained that the controlled release of hatchery-reared fingerlings into rivers supports the replenishment of native fish populations and helps restore ecological balance in freshwater systems. Noting the rich riverine resources of Nagaland, he stressed that irresponsible exploitation must be curtailed to secure long-term sustainability.
“We are blessed with abundant rivers and a good environment, but human greed is leading to destruction,” Rongsennungba stated. He urged collective responsibility in conserving the river, which he identified as a valuable resource for food fish, sport fish, and ornamental fish — all of which hold tourism potential as well.
Deputy director Dr. Rongsenkumzuk clarified that the key focus of the programme was not on the quantity of fish released but on raising awareness, especially among council leaders. He encouraged village councils to enforce rules and regulations for sustainable fishing, noting that while results may not be immediate, long-term gains in fish stock can be expected through consistent efforts.
Head GB of Philimi village, Vikikhe Assumi expressed gratitude to the department, recalling the abundant fish life in the river before the construction of the hydroelectric project. He welcomed the initiative as a positive step towards restoring what has been lost and committed to preserving the efforts made.
Chairman Tsungiki Village Council, Janthungo Kikon also extended appreciation, stating that their village union had been planning to approach the department for support only to be pleasantly surprised when the department acted first. He noted that though the community union consists of only Philimi and Tsungiki villages, the annual community fishing celebration is open to all tribes and villages in Nagaland. He also requested departmental support in constructing a shed in the area.
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The fish ranching was officially conducted by Sema and Rongsennungba, alongside members of the Philimi and Tsungiki village councils.
The programme was chaired by Ketuselie Angami, Joint Director, Fisheries. The invocation was delivered by Vikhashe Kiho, Pastor, Philimi Baptist Church, and the benediction by T. Mhao Kikon, Pastor, Tsungiki Baptist Church.
