The Himachal Pradesh Fisheries Department has been conferred the prestigious SKOCH Gold Award 2025 for its groundbreaking efforts in conserving the critically endangered Golden Mahaseer through a pioneering captive breeding programme. The award was presented at a ceremony held at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi, on September 20.

This recognition underscores the state government’s unwavering commitment to biodiversity conservation and its innovative strategies in reviving one of India’s most iconic freshwater species.

Golden Mahaseer: A Symbol of Aquatic Heritage

The Golden Mahaseer (Tor putitora), often called the “Tiger of Indian Rivers,” is a prized freshwater fish species, revered by ecologists and anglers alike. Beyond its ecological importance in maintaining riverine balance, the Golden Mahaseer is also a state fish of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Arunachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir.

However, over recent decades, its populations declined sharply due to:

• Habitat degradation from hydropower projects
• Overfishing driven by commercial and recreational demand
• Pollution from anthropogenic activities

This alarming decline prompted the Himachal Pradesh Fisheries Department to adopt an evidence-based conservation strategy.

A Breakthrough in Captive Breeding

The state’s Machhyal Mahaseer Farm, established in 2016, initially struggled with limited fingerling production, never exceeding 5,000 annually. The turning point came in 2023, when the government, in collaboration with ICAR–Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI), Bhimtal, introduced a series of scientific reforms.

The results were transformative:

• 2024–25 Production: The farm achieved a record 87,000 Golden Mahaseer fingerlings, a nearly 17-fold increase.
• Stocking Campaign: For the first time, large-scale restocking was undertaken, with 34,500 fingerlings released into natural habitats — 20,000 into Pong Reservoir and 14,500 into Gobind Sagar Reservoir.
• Expansion Plans: A new fish farm at Sunni (Shimla district) has been identified to further strengthen breeding and stocking initiatives.

These reforms not only mark a scientific milestone but also provide a replicable model for other Indian states.

Significance of the SKOCH Gold Award

Instituted in 2003, the SKOCH Award is widely recognized as India’s highest independent civilian honour, awarded by the SKOCH Group. Unlike many industry-driven awards, it is known for its rigorous, non-partisan, and research-based evaluation process.

Key Features of the SKOCH Award:

• Independent & Credible: Free from political or corporate bias.
• Rigorous Evaluation: Includes expert analysis, months-long scrutiny, and site verifications.
• Diverse Scope: Covers sectors like e-Governance, public service, corporate social responsibility, smart cities, and biodiversity.
• National Recognition: Highlights exemplary models for replication and policy inspiration.

By awarding the Himachal Pradesh Fisheries Department, SKOCH has spotlighted the critical importance of aquatic biodiversity conservation in India’s development narrative.

A Model for the Nation

The Golden Mahaseer conservation project is not just about saving a single species. It represents:

• Ecological Restoration: Rebuilding natural fish populations to maintain river health.
• Community Engagement: Supporting local livelihoods, including ecotourism and sustainable angling.
• Policy Innovation: Showcasing how science-backed governance can address biodiversity loss.

This achievement positions Himachal Pradesh as a national leader in freshwater conservation, offering hope for similar interventions across India’s river systems.

Conclusion

The SKOCH Gold Award 2025 bestowed upon the Himachal Pradesh Fisheries Department is more than a recognition — it is a celebration of resilience, innovation, and commitment. Through its transformative captive breeding programme, the state has not only revived the Golden Mahaseer but also rekindled faith in India’s capacity to protect its rich natural heritage.

As climate change, pollution, and development pressures continue to challenge ecosystems, Himachal Pradesh’s success story serves as an inspirational roadmap for integrating conservation with sustainable development.