On 11 October 2026, Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang released Chocolate Mahseer fish into the Rangeet River near Jorethang during the Chirbirey River Fest. The fish ranching initiative was organised with the Sikkim Anglers’ Association and focused on indigenous fish conservation, aquatic biodiversity and freshwater resource protection.
Chocolate Mahseer and Freshwater Conservation
Chocolate Mahseer, scientifically known as Neolissochilus hexagonolepis, is a freshwater fish found in the Himalayan region and parts of South and Southeast Asia. Fish ranching involves releasing fish into natural water bodies to support fish stocks. The festival included activities promoting the conservation of river ecosystems and freshwater resources. Tamang spoke about the potential of Sikkim’s freshwater resources for fisheries and aquaculture. He referred to suitable hybrid fish varieties as a possible means of supporting fish farming, local livelihoods and food security. The festival also featured Sikkim’s natural and cultural attractions and lesser-known tourist destinations.
Aquaculture Systems and Pisciculture
Pisciculture is the breeding, rearing and harvesting of fish. In Sikkim, more than 2,000 families were engaged in pisciculture as of National Fish Farmers Day on 10 July 2025. Young people in the state have been adopting technologies including Recirculatory Aquaculture Systems (RAS) and Biofloc. RAS facilities filter and reuse water in fish-rearing tanks, reducing the need for continuous water exchange. Biofloc systems use beneficial microorganisms to convert organic waste into microbial biomass that can serve as supplementary fish feed. Both methods are used in intensive aquaculture.
River and Fisheries Institutions
The Sikkim Anglers’ Association took part in organising the fish ranching initiative and advocates river conservation. The Chirbirey River Fest brought together ministers, Members of the Legislative Assembly and officials for activities connected with river conservation and local tourism.
Important Facts for Exams
- National Fish Farmers Day is observed in India on 10 July.
- RAS is an aquaculture method that treats and recirculates water within a fish-production facility.
- Biofloc technology uses microbial communities to convert organic matter into biomass in aquaculture systems.
- Fish ranching involves releasing fish into a water body to supplement its fish population.
The Chocolate Mahseer is a freshwater species, while pisciculture refers specifically to fish rearing. Sikkim’s reported pisciculture activities include the use of RAS and Biofloc technologies.
