SHILLONG: As part of the activities for the 2nd Meghalaya State Aqua Fest, 2014, the 1st Catch and Release Angling Competition was held at Ward’s Lake, Shillong, on Monday where 506 anglers from various parts of the State participated.
The aim of this competition is to convey the message on the importance of conservation of aquatic life and water bodies.
The proceeds from the angling competition would be donated to the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund.
In the closing function, Chief Secretary P.B.O. Warjri, said that the water bodies and aquatic life in the State have been destroyed due to rampant usage of harmful and poisonous substances which not only kill the fishes but also adversely affect the water and the environment.
Others who spoke on the occasion included Principal Secretary of Fisheries, K.N. Kumar, Principal Secretary, Planning, R.M. Mishra and Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forest, C.P. Marak.
The chief guest also gave away cash prizes of Rs.5000, Rs.4000 and Rs.3000 to T.S. Syiem, K. Kharkongor and W. Syiemlieh, who bagged the top three prizes respectively.