Ranchi, July 23: The Jharkhand government has launched a new initiative to promote sustainable fish farming by developing dedicated ‘Magur Villages’ aimed at conserving the indigenous Desi Magur (Clarias magur) and improving the income of fish farmers across the state.
The programme will be implemented by the State Directorate of Fisheries in collaboration with the ICAR–National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources (NBFGR), Lucknow.
In its first phase, the initiative will cover Ranchi, Gumla, Lohardaga and Simdega districts, with plans to expand to additional areas in the coming months.
Under the project, fish farmers will rear native Magur in cluster-based farming systems to encourage scientific aquaculture and ensure the availability of high-quality fish seed.
The government also plans to establish Live Germplasm Resource Centres to preserve genetically pure breeding stock of the indigenous species.
Officials said the initiative is designed to protect the native Magur population while preventing the spread of invasive African catfish and hybrid varieties.
Advanced molecular testing will be used to verify the genetic purity of fish seed produced under the programme.
The Fisheries Department said conserving the state’s native fish resources is essential for maintaining biodiversity, strengthening aquaculture and improving long-term productivity.
Farmers participating in the programme will receive scientific training, technical guidance and support for adopting improved breeding and cultivation practices.
Pilot demonstrations are already underway in several districts, where the department is encouraging farmers to adopt native Magur farming through quality seed distribution and improved feed management.
The programme is expected to expand gradually based on its performance.Officials noted that Desi Magur is considered a high-value species due to its strong market demand, relatively short growth cycle and nutritional value.
They believe wider adoption of scientific farming methods can help generate higher incomes for rural households while creating local employment opportunities.
Financial assistance for eligible beneficiaries will be provided under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
The subsidy structure offers higher financial support to Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe and women beneficiaries, while other eligible farmers will also receive substantial assistance for establishing fish farming units.
The state government expects the initiative to strengthen native fish conservation, promote sustainable aquaculture practices and enhance the economic prospects of fish farmers across Jharkhand.
