Inland Fisheries

6.2.7.6 Community-based co-management

Assam is struggling to build its economy through efficient resource utilization, specially the beels. However, the current management strategy does not allow for the local fishing community to have a role in the management paradigm. Historically, village and community-based management of beels and traditional fishing rights have existed. However, for the most part, these systems have disappeared. Recognition of the need for sustainable development and the need to address the ecological, economic and social objectives, makes a change in the management policy for beels an imperative. Biotope improvement is a must for the long-term optimum exploitation of the beels (Jhingran 1979), in terms of both environmental protection and productivity. The resources will dwindle in due course of time if biotope improvement is not made (Yadava 1987). Under the present management system no one is responsible for this aspect. Historical information shows that the beels were once the common property of the community and conservation ethics were followed. Catching and killing of brood fish and juveniles were prohibited. Such conservation practices still prevail among the Tiwa community of the Morigaon district in central Assam. Jon beel is a classic example of such management. Hence, Indian Fisheries Act needs to be enforced strictly to conserve the rich aquatic biodiversity through community participation.