Namchi, October 10 (IPR): The three-day Chirbirey River Fest commenced at Chirbirey, Jorethang, today, marking 25 years of the Sikkim Anglers’ Association’s (SAA) commitment to river stewardship and the conservation of river ecosystems. The festival is being organised by the SAA in collaboration with the Fisheries Department, Government of Sikkim.
The inaugural programme was graced by Advisor to the Fisheries Department Mr Am Prasad Sharma, as the Chief Guest, and Advisor to the Cooperation Department Mr Shyam Pradhan, as the Special Guest. They were accompanied by MLA, Salghari-Zoom, and Advisor to the Transport and Skill Development Departments Mr Madan Cintury, and Secretary, Fisheries Department Ms Roshni Rai.
Upon their arrival, the dignitaries visited the stalls set up at the venue, interacting with stall representatives to learn about the products and services on display. They subsequently visited the fish ranching pond within the festival premises, where they participated in releasing ornamental Japanese koi carp into the pond.
Over the three days, the festival will feature a Catch-and-Release Angling Competition as its main attraction, alongside a range of recreational and cultural activities, including manga drawing, pottery, poetry and live music. Camping facilities will also be available, bringing together angling enthusiasts and nature lovers while promoting freshwater angling and aquatic conservation.
The festival aims to foster greater awareness of river conservation, encourage responsible angling practices and celebrate the SAA’s longstanding contribution to preserving the region’s river ecosystems.
Also present were OSD to the MLA Mr Raju Roshan Pradhan, Additional Director Fisheries Department Dr Karma Doma Bhutia, ADC (HQ) Namchi Mr Subash Ghimirey,SDM, Jorethang Mr B B Rai, President SAA Dr S K Dewan, officers of the Fisheries Department, members of the SAA,staff of various line departments and other dignitaries.