In a strategic move to bolster fisheries research and development in the picturesque state of Sikkim, the Fisheries Department of Gangtok has forged a collaborative partnership with the esteemed Indian Council of Agricultural Research – Directorate of Coldwater Fisheries Research (ICAR-DCFR). This groundbreaking alliance sets the stage for significant advancements in the realm of cold-water fisheries within the region.
Under the visionary leadership of Director Pramod Kumar Pandey, ICAR-DCFR, a comprehensive roadmap for future developments has been outlined, according to recent reports. With a primary focus on leveraging the untapped potential of cold water fisheries, this partnership aims to harness the natural resources and unique ecological landscape of Sikkim.
Recognizing the transformative impact of coldwater fisheries on rural livelihoods in Indian Himalayan states and Union territories, the collaboration is poised to unlock new avenues for economic prosperity and sustainable development. Coldwater fisheries possess immense prospects for generating livelihood opportunities, particularly for rural communities residing in these ecologically diverse regions.
Noteworthy is the fact that ICAR-Directorate of Coldwater Fisheries Research, Bhimtal stands as the solitary premier research institute dedicated to the sustainable development of cold water aquaculture, as well as the management and conservation of hill stream fishes across the nation. Since its inception in 1987 under the aegis of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi, the institute has remained steadfast in its commitment to serving the nation through pioneering research and innovation in the field of fisheries.
This collaborative endeavor between the Gangtok Fisheries Department and ICAR-DCFR signifies a monumental step forward in harnessing the rich aquatic biodiversity of Sikkim. It highlights the collective commitment to fostering sustainable fisheries practices for the benefit of local communities and the conservation of precious natural resources.
