Launch of “Rangeen Machhli” App: A Milestone for India’s Ornamental Fisheries Sector

In a significant development for India’s ornamental fisheries sector, Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh Alias Lalan Singh, unveiled the “Rangeen Machhli” mobile application. The launch event took place at the prestigious ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIFA) in Bhubaneswar, marking a new era in the dissemination of knowledge and resources for ornamental fish enthusiasts and professionals alike.

The Launch Event

Key Attendees

The launch ceremony was graced by several dignitaries, including:

• Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh Alias Lalan Singh: Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying
• Shri George Kurian: Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying
• Senior officials from relevant departments and institutions

Ministerial Address

During his address, Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh emphasized several crucial points:

1. Growing Importance: He highlighted the increasing significance of the ornamental fisheries sector in India.
2. Ministry’s Focus: The Minister stated that the Ministry is placing a strong emphasis on developing this sector.
3. Economic Potential: He recognized the sector’s capacity to generate employment and contribute to the economy.
4. Promotion of Aquarium Hobby: Shri Singh stressed the need to promote aquarium hobby on a larger scale across the country.

About the “Rangeen Machhli” App

Development and Support

The “Rangeen Machhli” app is a result of collaborative efforts:

• Developed by: ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIFA)
• Supported by: Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)

Target Audience

The app caters to a diverse range of users within the ornamental fisheries ecosystem:

• Hobbyists
• Aquarium shop owners
• Fish farmers

Key Features

1. Multilingual Information

• Provides details on popular ornamental fish species in eight Indian languages
• Enhances accessibility for a wide audience across different regions of India

2. Comprehensive Fish Care Information

• Offers detailed guidance on care, breeding, and maintenance practices for various ornamental fish species
• Useful for both beginners and experienced aquarists

3. “Find Aquarium Shops” Tool

• A dynamic directory of aquarium shops
• Allows users to locate nearby shops easily
• Shop owners can update their information, promoting local businesses
• Connects users with reliable sources for ornamental fish and related products

4. Educational Modules

The app includes two primary educational modules:

a) Basics of Aquarium Care

Covers essential topics for beginners:

• Types of aquariums
• Fish species
• Water filtration techniques
• Lighting requirements
• Feeding practices
• Day-to-day maintenance

b) Ornamental Aquaculture

• Focuses on advanced topics for professionals:
  • Breeding techniques
  • Rearing of different ornamental fish species

Significance of the App

1. Knowledge Dissemination

The “Rangeen Machhli” app serves as a comprehensive knowledge repository, making expert information easily accessible to enthusiasts and professionals alike.

2. Industry Growth

By providing valuable resources and connecting various stakeholders, the app is poised to contribute significantly to the growth of India’s ornamental fisheries sector.

3. Employment Generation

As highlighted by the Minister, the app’s support for the ornamental fisheries sector could lead to increased employment opportunities in this niche industry.

4. Economic Contribution

The growth of the ornamental fisheries sector, facilitated by tools like this app, has the potential to make a noteworthy contribution to India’s economy.

5. Promotion of Sustainable Practices

By educating users about proper fish care and maintenance, the app promotes sustainable and responsible aquarium keeping practices.