ICAR-CIFRI Celebrates World Wetlands Day 2024, Promoting Sustainable Wetland Practices for Human Wellbeing

Wetlands play a crucial ecological role, providing diverse benefits to the environment and human communities. These areas contribute various ecosystem goods and services that support the livelihoods of rural populations. However, the vulnerability of many wetlands due to climatic changes and human activities necessitates conservation efforts.

The ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CIFRI), an institute under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), is dedicated to inland open-water fisheries development in India. ICAR-CIFRI actively contributes to the advancement of wetland fisheries through technological development, policy support, capacity building, climate change adaptation, and technology demonstration.

World Wetlands Day 2024 Celebration in ICAR-CIFRI

The World Wetlands Day 2024 celebration, hosted by ICAR-CIFRI, began with a warm welcome extended to the guests and fish farmers by Dr B K Das, Director, ICAR-CIFRI. In his opening address, Dr Das briefly introduced the institute's achievements in wetland fisheries development. Dr Sandeep Behera, Senior Consultant, Biodiversity, NMCG mentioned the genesis and purpose of the Wetlands Day celebration and mentioned the importance of wetlands. He commended CIFRI for its achievements and contributions to wetland fisheries development and conservation.

Professor (Dr) B B Jana, University of Kalyani also praised CIFRI's accomplishments in wetland development and emphasized the critical role of wetlands in sustaining human well-being. Professor (Dr) Ashis Kumar Panigrahi, Pro-Vice Chancellor, University of Burdwan, WB mentioned the need for the conservation of wetlands and praised the role of CIFRI in wetland development at the grass root level. Professor (Dr) Soma Mukherjee, HoD, Department of Environmental Science, University of Kalyani, WB highlighted the importance of wetlands for human wellbeing.

Technical Session on Importance of Wetlands 

Following the inaugural program, a technical session unfolded where experts from NMCG, the University of Kalyani, the University of Burdwan, Adamas University, the Department of Fisheries, and Scientists from CIFRI delivered insightful talks on wetland conservation and sustainable utilization for human well-being. In the technical session, Dr Das highlighted the importance of wetlands and showcased the institute's achievements in wetland fisheries development, emphasizing their positive impact on human wellbeing in his presentation.

The technical session seamlessly transitioned into a panel discussion. Participants engaged in a thorough discussion on various issues, challenges, and proposed strategies for the sustainable development of wetlands.

This exchange of ideas and experiences laid the foundation for a comprehensive understanding of the intricate balance required for the coexistence of wetlands and human well-being. An integral part of the celebration was the interaction between scientists and fishers from six wetlands of West Bengal, providing an opportunity for the exchange of practical knowledge. 

FRP Fishing Boats for Fishers

In support of sustainable fishing practices, Dr Das announced the adoption of new ten wetlands by providing capacity building and fisheries input. On the same day, fishers from four wetlands received Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Fishing boats equipped with outboard engines and CIFRI HDPE pens for enhancement of fish production in wetlands.

The event not only highlighted the importance of wetlands in the context of human well-being but also served as a platform for meaningful discussions and collaborations between experts and fishers. The distribution of fishing equipment further underscored the commitment towards sustainable wetland management. The workshop concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and dedication to preserving and utilizing wetlands for the betterment of both ecosystems and communities.