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ICAR-CIFRI Celebrates World Environment Day with Khet Bachao Abhiyan at Sangam, Prayagraj

05^th June, 2026
Prayagraj,U.P.
Reinforcing the message of environmental stewardship and sustainable food systems, the Regional Centre of ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CIFRI), Prayagraj, organized a vibrant ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ on the occasion of World Environment Day at the iconic Sangam, Prayagraj. The programme highlighted the critical linkages between sustainable agriculture, healthy river ecosystems, and inland fisheries conservation.

Held under the inspiring leadership of Dr. Pradip Dey, Director, ICAR-CIFRI, Barrackpore, the event underscored the institute’s unwavering commitment to environmental conservation, sustainable agriculture, and responsible fisheries management. Welcoming the dignitaries and participants, Dr. B.R. Chavan, Head, ICAR-CIFRI Regional Centre, Prayagraj, underscored the importance of natural farming practices such as vermicomposting, probiotics, and reduced dependence on synthetic chemicals for improving soil health, protecting aquatic ecosystems, and enhancing farm sustainability. He also highlighted the significance of river ranching in maintaining ecological balance and fish biodiversity in riverine systems.
The programme was graced by Prof. (Dr.) Nilam Yadav, Coordinator, Centre for Food Technology, University of Allahabad, as the Chief Guest, while Prof. (Dr.) Ashwini Kumar, Department of Botany, and Prof. (Dr.) S.K. Chauhan, Department of Environmental Science, University of Allahabad, attended as Special Guests. Eminent representatives from environmental and community organizations, including Shri Sarjit Nayak of the Ganga Task Force and Shri Rajesh Sharma of Ganga Vichar Manch, Prayagraj, also participated. A total of 50 participants, including six women, took part in the programme, reflecting broad-based community engagement.

Addressing the gathering, Prof. Nilam Yadav advocated the adoption of natural farming practices to reduce chemical runoff into rivers while improving soil fertility and agricultural sustainability. Prof. Ashwini Kumar emphasized organic nutrient recycling as an effective approach for enhancing soil productivity and preventing contamination of water bodies. Highlighting the environmental benefits of sustainable agriculture, Shri Sarjit Nayak noted that eco-friendly farming practices contribute significantly to reducing river pollution and supporting healthier fish populations in the Ganga and Yamuna river systems. Prof. S.K. Chauhan called upon farmers and citizens alike to champion natural farming as a collective movement for environmental conservation.
Scientists of ICAR-CIFRI stressed the importance of responsible aquaculture practices, particularly the avoidance of indiscriminate antibiotic use, to safeguard aquatic biodiversity and ensure safe, nutritious fish for consumers. The programme was actively coordinated by Dr. D.N. Jha, Dr. Absar Alam, Shri Jeetendra Kumar, and Dr. Vikas Kumar, along with the scientific and technical team of the Regional Centre.

The event concluded with a collective pledge by farmers, fishers, scientists, and community stakeholders to strengthen collaborative efforts for conserving river ecosystems, promoting natural farming, and advancing sustainable food production systems. The initiative exemplified ICAR-CIFRI’s commitment to integrating environmental conservation with livelihood security and climate-resilient agriculture and fisheries.