The programme was inaugurated by Dr. B. K. Das, in the presence of all Heads of Divisions and In-Charges of ICAR-CIFRI. In his presidential address, Dr. Das emphasized the need for a holistic and ecosystem-based approach to wetland fisheries management. Highlighting the ecological importance of wetlands, he urged for the adoption of nature-based solutions to address climate change and sustainable floodplain wetlands. He also provided an overview of India’s inland open water fisheries, with a special focus on wetland fisheries.
Dr. R. K. Manna, Course Coordinator and Head of the RWF Division, underlined the relevance of the training in the wake of declining wetland fisheries across the country. The week-long programme aimed to enhance participants’ understanding and hands-on experience of ecosystem-based wetland fisheries management.

The sessions covered a broad spectrum of topics, including ecosystem services and valuation of wetlands, floodplain wetland ecology, fish health management, and the role of small indigenous species. Discussions also explored emerging issues such as microplastic and heavy metal contamination and the application of GIS, remote sensing, AI and drone technologies in fisheries.
Practical modules offered training in fish taxonomy, assessment of water and sediment quality, plankton and macrophyte studies and statistical analysis for ecological assessment. Participants also learned fish yield estimation techniques, trophic status evaluation and indicator-based ecological health assessment.
A one-day field trip to Chamardaha Wetland, Nadia district, West Bengal, provided participants with firsthand exposure to wetland ecosystems and data collection methods. During the valedictory and feedback session, participants appreciated the comprehensive and practical nature of the training, particularly the field sampling and laboratory demonstrations.The programme was coordinated by Dr. R. K. Manna, Dr. Lianthuamluaia and Dr. Pritijyoti Majhi , whose efforts contributed significantly to the programme’s success.