Fishing techniques and gears developed by tribal communities around Bargi Reservoir in Madhya Pradesh, India

Abstract

Traditional knowledge (TK) plays a very important role in the lives of millions of people around the world. There is an immense need for documentation of traditional knowledge especially in countries rich in biodiversity, such as India. Bargi is one of the major dams constructed on the river Narmada in Madhya Pradesh. Local communities have used various fishing methods since time immemorial. Construction of the dam changes the ecology and hydrology of the river. Tribal communities have adapted their fishing techniques to these changes and have also developed new techniques. Fishing technique described in this paper is practiced around Bargi Reservoir. Five types of crafts and different gears were encountered during the two years of seasonal survey.