Diglipur, Jan 15: ICAR–KVK, North & Middle Andaman successfully organized an awareness programme on Illegal Introduction and Unauthorised Import of Exotic Fish Species” on 13thJanuary, 2026 at Mohanpur, Diglipur Tehsil. The programme was designed to address local fish farmers, fishery stakeholders and community members about the risks associated with bringing in or releasing non-native fish species into local waters bodies.
The inaugural session was graced byMr. Ujjain Dhali, Assistant Fisheries Development Officer (AFDO), Fisheries Sub-station, Diglipur. In his inaugural address he explained that exotic fish are non-native species that can upset the balance of local aquatic life. He explained that when these fish enter a new ecosystem they often compete with native species for food and habitat, change food webs and water conditions, and can harm biodiversity and local fisheries without proper checks and controls.Mr. Subam Debroy, SMS (Aquaculture) outlined the concept of exotic fish species and explained how they can enter local water bodies through human activities such as aquaculture or accidentally from open water systems during natural calamities. He described both the positive and negative impacts of introducing exotic species into local water bodies, noting benefits in controlled aquaculture as well as ecological risks to native biodiversity. Finally, he outlined management measures to monitor, regulate, and mitigate the impacts of exotic species through proper planning, biosecurity, and stakeholder involvement.Mr. Rakesh Dawar, SMS (Agronomy) spoke on the importance of conducting thorough risk assessments and following regulatory guidelines for the import of exotic fish species. He highlighted that imports must be evaluated for potential ecological and health risks and supported by the necessary certification and permits before approval. He also stressed that strict compliance with these procedures helps prevent the introduction of new diseases and protects local ecosystems.
The programme was conducted under the overall guidance of Dr. Jai Sunder, Director (Act.), ICAR–Central Island Agricultural Research Institute, Sri Vijayapuram. About 35 farmers and farmwomen Participated in the program.