Fresh Water Fish Habitat Science and Management in India

Abstract

India is a land of diverse topography, climate and natural resource. There are 12 major rivers and 48 lesser rivers with a total catchment area of 277.6 million hectares. The fresh water resources of the country which are varied harbor 587 species of finfish and account for 9.3 percent of global inland fish production. India's natural capital of fish habitat resource has been eroded as reflected in loss of bio-diversity and reduced fish landings. Studies on the ecology, environment and fisheries of five major river systems in addition to reservoirs and flood plain lake fisheries have been conducted with greater focus on water quality and less on physical habitat parameters.

The Central Water Commission is responsible for development of all freshwater bodies whereas, the National River Conservation Directorate is responsible for river conservation. River conservation programs cover major rivers in 10 States of the country, the ‘Ganga Action Plan’ being the most important. These projects target improvement in water quality and not fish habitat improvement. Lack of concern for fish habitat is reflected in the planning of Farakka barrage on the river Ganga (The Ganges) and its impact on ‘Hilsa’ run. Environmental laws have not achieved desired objectives for lack of enforcement mechanisms. Fishery scientists and resource users are not involved in the river conservation program.

The fresh water habitat management situation in India evokes both concern and hope. Concern arises out of the missing elements in the existing fish habitat research, planning and management of resource. The hope for the future is our increasing awareness of the need for better resource management and environmental conservation. India has a responsibility to conserve these natural assets for future generations. Potential steps are outlined.