The Manipur Fisheries Department has signed a MoA with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research–Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Mumbai, to promote the scientific breeding of Ngakijou (Guntea loach).

The initiative aims to reduce dependence on wild collection while ensuring the conservation, commercial propagation and sustainable availability of this indigenous fish.

Key Features of the Initiative

• Scientific breeding technology will be introduced to enable controlled breeding and production of Ngakijou.
• Fish farmers will be licensed for breeding, creating a regulated system for commercial propagation.
• Specialised training programmes will build the capacity of local fish farmers in scientific breeding practices.
• The initiative seeks to balance biodiversity conservation with livelihood and market needs, reducing pressure on naturally occurring fish populations.

About Ngakijou 

Ngakijou, an indigenous fish found in the wetlands of Manipur, is considered a high-value fish in local markets.

• It generally sells for around ₹2,000–2,500 per kilogram.
• Its availability is seasonal, creating a gap between consumer demand and natural supply.
• Scientific breeding can therefore provide a more regular supply while reducing excessive dependence on wild populations.

Other Indigenous Fish Species

The Fisheries Department is also planning a project for Nganap, another highly valued indigenous freshwater fish associated with the rivers and wetlands of Manipur.

Nganap is valued for its taste and nutritional qualities, but its availability in local markets has reportedly declined.

The initiative follows the successful breeding of Sareng (Wallago attu) by the department, demonstrating the potential of scientific breeding for indigenous fish resources.

Modernising Fisheries Infrastructure

The State is also strengthening fisheries infrastructure.

• A fish-feed production unit with a capacity of 250–500 kilograms per day has been installed at the Fish Farmers Development Agency, Lamphel.
• Local production of quality fish feed can help reduce dependence on outside supplies and support scientific fish farming.

Key Takeaway

Manipur’s Ngakijou initiative demonstrates how scientific breeding can combine indigenous biodiversity conservation with livelihood generation and growing consumer demand.

Exam Hook – Prelims

Consider the following statements:

1. Ngakijou, or Guntea loach, is an indigenous fish associated with the wetlands of Manipur.
2. Manipur has entered into an agreement with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research–Central Institute of Fisheries Education for scientific breeding of Ngakijou.
3. The initiative aims to reduce dependence on wild collection while promoting commercial propagation.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Answer: 1, 2 and 3.

One-line wrap: Scientific breeding can turn indigenous fish conservation from a protection-only approach into a sustainable livelihood and food-security opportunity.