Shillong: The Meghalaya cabinet on Tuesday approved the Chocolate Mahseer (Neolissochilus hexagonolepis) as the state fish, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma announced.
“A meeting of the cabinet held today approved the Chocolate Mahseer (Neolissochilus hexagonolepis) or ‘Khasaw’ in Khasi and ‘Na-rang’ in Garo as the state fish of Meghalaya,” Sangma said.
“At present, our state does not have an officially designated state fish, unlike many other parts of the country. We have therefore decided to declare the Chocolate Mahseer as the state fish,” he added.
“This fish is native to the state of Meghalaya, and the decision has also been taken with a strong focus on conservation, to protect and promote this indigenous species,” the Chief Minister said.
The Chocolate Mahseer is a freshwater fish species found in the rivers and streams of Meghalaya. It holds cultural significance, being referred to as ‘Khasaw’ in the Khasi language and ‘Na-rang’ in Garo. The declaration aims to highlight the importance of preserving local biodiversity and ensuring sustainable practices.
Meghalaya joins several other Indian states that have officially designated state fish to promote awareness about aquatic ecosystems. The move is expected to boost conservation efforts and ecotourism, as the Chocolate Mahseer is a prized species among anglers and environmentalists.
The cabinet’s decision comes amid growing concerns over habitat loss and overfishing. By granting the Chocolate Mahseer official recognition, the state government hopes to implement stricter protection measures and encourage community-led conservation initiatives.
Chief Minister Sangma emphasized that the designation is not merely symbolic but will drive concrete actions for the species’ survival. Plans include habitat restoration, breeding programs, and stricter regulations on fishing. The government also aims to involve local communities in safeguarding the fish, which is an integral part of the region’s natural heritage.
