Fisheries Department Releases 7.5 Lakh Advanced Fingerlings into Budhabalanga River in Baleswar
By Krushna Kumar Mohanty
Baleswar, 23/5:(Krushna Kumar Mohanty) A significant step toward boosting inland fisheries and rural livelihoods was taken today as the Baleswar Fisheries Department conducted a large-scale release of advanced fingerling fish into the Budhabalanga River. The programme, held at Parmit Ghat under the Sadar Block, aimed to enhance local fish populations and support sustainable aquaculture.
Presiding over the event were several dignitaries, including Baleswar MLA Manas Kumar Dutta, District Collector Suryabanshi Mayurbikash, Ward No. 1 Councillor Sasmita Nath, Cluster Development Officer Uttam Kumar Jena, Baleswar Zonal Deputy Fisheries Officer Deepti Kumar Mahapatra, District Fisheries Officer Jitendra Kumar Behera, and Assistant Fisheries Officer of Sadar Block Asmita Panda.
As part of the initiative, a total of 7,50,000 advanced fingerlings were released into the river. Addressing the gathering, the District Collector emphasized pisciculture as a vital livelihood sector for the region, underlining its potential in strengthening the rural economy of Baleswar.
MLA Manas Kumar Dutta reflected on the cultural heritage of Parmit Ghat and urged men and women alike to participate in fish farming. He highlighted its value not just as a profession but as a path to financial self-reliance for families.
Deputy Fisheries Officer Deepti Kumar Mahapatra elaborated on the ecological and economic importance of river stocking and provided practical knowledge on responsible fishing practices, including guidance on net mesh sizes to ensure sustainable yield.
District Fisheries Officer Jitendra Kumar Behera coordinated and moderated the proceedings. Notable attendees included Kartik Chandra Nath, Gauranga Chandra Das, and Kartik Chandra Raut, along with Fisheries Officers and staff from all blocks.
The event concluded with a formal vote of thanks delivered by Nilgiri’s Assistant Fisheries Officer Priyanka Priyadarshini Prusty, acknowledging the collective efforts of all departments and community stakeholders.
