Hornbill Angling Festival concludes at Tizu River

DIMAPUR — The second and final day of the Hornbill Angling Festival 2025 at Tizu River, Meluri, on Sunday was attended by Advisor of New & Renewable Energy (N&RE) and Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (MSDMA), Nyusietho Nyuthe, as the special guest.

In his address, the advisor highlighted that river ecosystems in the region are undergoing rapid change as an 'outside fish species' increasingly dominates upstream waters, threatening to replace traditional native fish, a DIPR report stated.

Nyuthe noted that Meluri's river communities rely on fishing not only as a cultural practice but also as a means of livelihood, making conservation a shared duty.

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He lauded the role of the Anglers' Association Nagaland (AAN) in bringing angling practices to the district while promoting conservation and awareness.

He expressed hope that with the involvement of AAN, local administration, and community support, the region will be able to frame responsible fishing measures and develop sustainable river management.

The advisor urged the Fisheries department to identify the most practical and sustainable ways to develop economic activities for the area through aquatic ecosystem.

Other highlights of the programme included the official launching of the Meluri District Anglers Association, envisioned to conserve aquatic biodiversity, promote sustainable angling, and boost eco-tourism.

On the occasion, a magazine documenting the AAN’s activities from 2013 to 2025 was officially released by Nyuthe.

The prize distribution was conducted by officials of the AAN.

Gagan Rai won the first prize, while Siechutho and B Imnachiba were placed second and third, respectively, in the angling competition. The winners received prize money of INR1 lakh, INR 50,000, and INR 25,000, respectively along with certificates.

The programme was chaired by Y Kent, Joint Director of Department of Fisheries & Aquatic Resources (F&AR), while short speeches were delivered by Ronsennnungba, Director of F&AR, and Mhonbemo Ngullie, president of AAN. The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by R Esther Angami, District Fishery Officer (DFO), Meluri.