Archive · 12 Oct 2026
Sikkim CM Releases Chocolate Mahseer to Promote River Conservation
Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang released Chocolate Mahseer fish into the Rangeet River.
The release happened during the Chirbirey River Fest near Jorethang.
The festival includes activities connected to rivers, nature and local culture.
Tamang said it is important to protect fish that are native to the area.
He also said rivers and freshwater can help support fishing and fish farming.
Some suitable improved fish varieties could help local people earn a living and provide food.
The festival also aims to bring attention to lesser-known places.
Tamang said tourism should be responsible and support local communities.
Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang released Chocolate Mahseer into the Rangeet River.
The release took place on the second day of the Chirbirey River Fest near Jorethang.
Tamang said conserving indigenous fish and aquatic biodiversity is important.
He said suitable hybrid mahseer and other improved fish strains could support livelihoods, food security and sustainable fish farming.
Tamang said the festival promotes local culture, tourism, communities and responsible engagement with natural heritage.
- Who
- Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang released the fish, alongside ministers, MLAs and officials attending the festival.
- What
- Chocolate Mahseer were released into the Rangeet River as part of an initiative to promote freshwater and river ecosystem conservation.
- When
- October 11; the release was on the second day of the Chirbirey River Fest.
- Where
- A riverbank fish ranching site along the Rangeet River near Jorethang, Sikkim.
- Why
- To promote conservation of indigenous fish species and aquatic biodiversity, and highlight freshwater resources.
- Chief minister
- Prem Singh Tamang
- Fish released
- Chocolate Mahseer
- River
- Rangeet River
- Event
- Chirbirey River Fest
- Festival day
- Second day
- Location
- Near Jorethang, Sikkim
- Stated aims
- Conserve indigenous fish and aquatic biodiversity; promote local livelihoods, food security and sustainable fish farming.