In a rare event, more than 500 anglers today took part at a competition organised by the Meghalaya government.
The programme was held as part of the Second Meghalaya State Aqua Fest 2014 to raise funds for flood relief in the Garo Hills region.
An estimated 560 anglers from various parts of the state participated in the event of 'catch and release' of fishes aimed at conservation of aquatic life and water bodies.
The proceeds from the competition will be donated to the Meghalaya Chief Minister's Relief Fund to aid flood and landslide incidents last month which left 59 dead and damaged properties worth over Rs 1500 crore.
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 ecology.
Wajri expressed hope that through competition such as this, anglers will be aware to let the fishes continue their cycle so as to avoid extinction.
K N Kumar, Principal Secretary of Fisheries, R M Mishra, Principal Secretary, Planning, C P Marak, Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forest were present.
T S Syiem, K Kharkongor and W Syiemlieh bagged the 1st, 2nd and 3rd prize respectively with a cash award of Rs 5000, Rs 4000 and Rs 3000.
