ITANAGAR, Nov 10: The fifth edition of the Darak Angling Competition 2026 concluded at Darak in West Siang district on November 7, with anglers from across Arunachal Pradesh and neighbouring Assam participating in the event.
Organised by the Bogo Ao Welfare Society (BAWS), the competition aimed to promote conservation of indigenous fish species, generate livelihood opportunities for local communities and boost adventure tourism in the state.
Moji Riram emerged as the champion, winning a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh, along with a trophy and certificate. Ngurang Neega secured the first runner-up position with Rs 50,000, while Achung Gollo finished second runner-up and received Rs 30,000. Mindak Karcho won the Highest Catch Award, carrying a cash prize of Rs 20,000.
Darak, known for its diverse fish species, is particularly noted for the Golden Mahseer and Chocolate Mahseer, which have become major attractions for anglers visiting the area.
The organisers introduced changes to the competition format this year, including the removal of separate women’s and men’s categories to ensure equal participation. Registration was limited to 30 slots, with the focus kept on the participating anglers rather than inviting political VIPs. Participation certificates were also presented to all contestants.
The competition was flagged off by Galo Welfare Society general secretary Nyakar Raksap, while the valedictory function was attended by Darak Circle Officer Mikri Riba.
BAWS, which organised the event with its own resources this year, has been actively promoting community-led conservation. Around five months ago, it joined hands with the Darak Tourism and Social Welfare Foundation to earmark a stretch of the Silk River as a Fish Park-cum-Fish Sanctuary for conservation and eco-tourism under the Bogo Community-Led Fish Conservation Initiative.
Yomjum Yomgam, chairman of the Young Mission Adventure Club (YMAC), and Jummo Potom, managing director of the Darak Tourism and Social Welfare Foundation and Darak Orchid Farming Club, were felicitated with mementos for their technical support and guidance. Both have been associated with the competition since its inception.
The event was organised by BAWS in collaboration with YMAC, Darak Orchid Farming Club and Darak Tourism and Social Welfare Foundation, organisations engaged in tourism promotion and biodiversity conservation in the area.
BAWS president Sandu Bogo thanked the participating anglers, sponsors, well-wishers, women and youth for their support in making the event successful.