WWF Nepal, in collaboration with the Government of Nepal, marked World Fisheries Day 2025 with the theme “Sustainable Practices for a Sustainable Future” through a community event in Shantibazar, Geruwa-3, Bardiya. The event was jointly organized with implementing partners Sonaha Bikas Samiti, Dolphin Conservation Centre, Small Mammal Conservation and Research Foundation, and Freed Kamaiya Women Development Forum, with additional support from the Geruwa Rural Municipality.

The event brought together fishing communities, local governments, conservationists, and youth groups to highlight the importance of sustainable fisheries, river biodiversity protection, and the traditional ecological knowledge of local and indigenous communities.

A key highlight of the program was the sharing of indigenous fishing knowledge and practices by the Sonaha and Tharu communities. Elders and traditional fishers shared age-old methods rooted in ecological balance, demonstrating how community-led stewardship can contribute to the protection of aquatic biodiversity.

“As community members, we take pride in the indigenous fishing knowledge passed down by our Sonaha and Tharu elders. Their traditional, eco-friendly methods remind us that caring for our rivers is part of who we are. It is also our responsibility to pass this wisdom to future generations, especially as modern techniques increasingly threaten our traditional fishing practices and culture.” - Chotlal Sonaha

A session was held on the legal provisions of the Aquatic Animal and Biodiversity Conservation Act, emphasizing compliance, community roles, and the relevance of sustainable harvesting practices in conserving endangered species and maintaining river health.

The event also displayed traditional fishing gear and locally prepared fish-based culinary items, highlighting the strong connection between culture and nature.

The program concluded with a conservation rally, where community members marched through Shantibazar carrying messages on sustainable fishing, river protection, and responsible resource use. The rally symbolized a collective commitment to safeguarding aquatic ecosystems for future generations.

“For us, fish are more than a resource, they are closely tied to our identity, our culture, and our way of life. By protecting our aquatic biodiversity today, we are safeguarding the heritage and livelihoods of the families who have relied on these rivers for generations. We also have our Aquatic Animal Conservation Act, which includes provisions for establishing fish sanctuaries. This approach may be new for Nepal, but it is essential for the future of our rivers and our communities.” -Nirmal Chaudhary, Ward Chairperson-3, Geruwa Rural Municipality

Speaking at the event, representatives from the National Park, Indigenous Communities, and local authorities reiterated that protecting Nepal’s river systems requires science-based action, community partnership, and policy enforcement. They emphasized that sustainable practices not only ensure biodiversity conservation but also secure the livelihoods of thousands of fish-dependent households.

Celebrating World Fisheries Day served as a reminder that healthy rivers mean healthy communities and that sustainability is a shared responsibility.

The celebration was supported by the UK Government through the Darwin Initiative under the project “Strengthening Communities’ Livelihood and Stewardship to Conserve Otters in Karnali.”