THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, November 12: The Jharkhand Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Hemant Soren, has approved a series of important decisions, with one of the most notable being the declaration of Desi Mangur (Clarias magur) as the State Fish of Jharkhand. The move aims to promote the conservation of native fish species, enhance local aquaculture, and strengthen the state’s identity in inland fisheries.
Desi Mangur: Jharkhand’s New Symbol of Aquatic Heritage
The decision follows a proposal from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research – National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources (ICAR-NBFGR), Lucknow, which recommended recognising Clarias magur as Jharkhand’s State Fish, similar to other states that have identified emblematic aquatic species.
Known locally as Desi Mangur, this hardy, air-breathing catfish thrives in Jharkhand’s natural water bodies and plays a crucial ecological role. However, its population has declined in recent years due to habitat loss, overfishing, and competition from exotic species such as the African Magur.
The new designation is expected to encourage breeding and conservation efforts, promote sustainable aquaculture, and increase awareness among fish farmers and local communities.
Fisheries Sector in Jharkhand: Growth and Opportunity
Jharkhand’s fisheries sector has seen steady growth over the past decade. According to state data, fish production has surpassed 2.2 lakh tonnes annually, with over 3.5 lakh people directly or indirectly engaged in fish farming and allied activities.
By recognising Desi Mangur as the State Fish, the government aims to boost native fish culture, support livelihoods in rural areas, and align with national initiatives promoting biodiversity and food security.
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Other Key Cabinet Approvals
Besides the state fish declaration, the Cabinet approved several other decisions, including:
Provisional approval for convening the Winter Session of the Sixth Jharkhand Legislative Assembly from December 5 to 11, 2025.
Approval of the Reserve Bank of India’s draft notification for the operation of the Guarantee Redemption Fund.
Authorisation for the State Government to withdraw loans from the National Housing Bank under the Urban Infrastructure Development Fund (UIDF).
Establishment of STEM laboratories in one Chief Minister’s School of Excellence (CM SoE) in each of the 24 districts.
Inclusion of Netarhat Residential School teachers and staff under the Old Pension Scheme.
Approval for the construction and management of Hotel Baidyanath Vihar, Deoghar, as a four-star facility under the PPP mode.
Administrative approvals for major road infrastructure projects in Giridih and Simdega districts.
