Ahmedabad: In a historic announcement at the inaugural Global Fisheries Conference India 2023 in Ahmedabad, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel proclaimed the marine ‘Ghol’ fish as the official state fish of Gujarat. The declaration, made at Gujarat Science City, was accompanied by the presence of Union Minister for Fisheries, Parshottam Rupala.
Scientifically recognized as the Black Spotted Croaker (Protonibea diacanthus), the Ghol fish is celebrated not only for its culinary appeal but also for its medicinal properties, making it a sought-after commodity in many countries. Gujarat, a key player in the fisheries sector, particularly values the Ghol fish’s bladder as a high-value export.
Following the announcement, Union Minister Rupala addressed the media, emphasizing the significance of the decision. He stated, “The Gujarat government’s declaration of Ghol as the state fish is a strategic move to enhance conservation efforts and raise awareness about the unique attributes of this marine species.”
The Ghol fish, with its wide distribution in the Indo-Pacific region from the Persian Gulf to the Pacific Ocean, holds cultural, economic, and ecological importance. This official recognition as the state fish marks a pivotal step in Gujarat’s commitment to the conservation and promotion of its diverse fisheries resources. The move is expected to contribute to both local and global efforts in preserving marine biodiversity.