Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh recently shared exciting news on social media, highlighting a significant achievement under the State’s ambitious “Sareng Project.” Laimujam Dinamani Singh from Tentha Khunou in Thoubal District, along with the Manipur Fisheries department, has successfully achieved induced breeding of the indigenous Meitei Sareng (Wallago attu), also known as catfish or freshwater shark.
The Meitei Sareng, once thought to be extinct or near extinction in Manipur, holds cultural and ecological significance. These predatory fish, known for their elongated bodies and whisker-like barbels, traditionally inhabited rivers like Imphal, Kongba, Iril, and Thoubal. However, barriers like the Ithai Barrage disrupted their natural migration, severely impacting their population.
Delighted to share that the “Sareng Project” has achieved another grand success with Laimujam Dinamani Singh of Tentha Khunou, Thoubal District & the Department of Fisheries Govt of Manipur delivering positive results in the induced breeding of Sareng (Wallago attu).
The state… pic.twitter.com/EZgC7DdUb1
— N. Biren Singh (@NBirenSingh) July 5, 2024
Under the “Sareng Project”, launched to revive these indigenous species, the Fisheries department has implemented strategic initiatives. These include broodstock management, artificial breeding to restock natural habitats, and establishing gene banks using advanced cryopreservation techniques.
CM Biren Singh expressed his delight at the recent breeding success, underlining its importance in conserving Manipur’s biodiversity. The project not only aims to replenish the Sareng population but also seeks to reduce the State’s dependence on fish imports from Assam and Bengal. Currently, Manipur consumes approximately 52,000 metric tonnes of fish annually but produces only 32,000 metric tonnes locally.
The successful breeding efforts mark a milestone in Manipur’s conservation efforts and highlight the State Government’s commitment to preserving its rich aquatic heritage. As the “Sareng Project” continues to make strides, it promises a sustainable future for the indigenous Meitei Sareng, ensuring its presence in Manipur’s rivers and reservoirs for generations to come.
