Bihar’s ‘Chepua’ Fish Turns into Liquid Gold: Pickle Sells at ₹1,200 per Kg, Pricier Than Cashews and Raisins

Bettiah: In the riverine belt of Bihar’s West Champaran district, a small indigenous fish known as Chepua has emerged as a major source of livelihood and economic revival for thousands of families. Found in abundance in the Gandak River, this tiny fish is now fetching premium prices — with its pickle selling at ₹1,200 per kilogram, surpassing even dry fruits like cashews and raisins.

Villages such as Dhanaha, Bagaha, Piprasi and Thakraha in Bihar, along with Paniahawa, Salikpur and Mahadeva in neighbouring Uttar Pradesh, are witnessing a steady boost in rural income due to the growing demand for Chepua fish. More than 2,000 fishermen from riverbank villages venture into the Gandak daily, supplying fresh fish to roadside eateries and pickle makers.

A Culinary Attraction for Food Lovers

Hundreds of people from northern Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh travel to Dhanaha, located about 25 km from Bagaha, to savour Chepua fish fry and curry served with bhunja (puffed rice). Roadside dhabas line both sides of the highway, frying fish from morning till evening. Chepua has become the region’s signature dish.

International Recognition for Nutritional Value

According to a 2015 study by the American Food Society, conducted jointly with scientists from India and Nepal, Chepua fish was found to be more nutritious than hilsa. Rich in Omega-3, Omega-6 fatty acids, protein, calcium, iron and magnesium, the study brought international attention to the species.

In 2018, initiatives were launched to study its biology and promote sustainable harvesting, though experts say much potential remains untapped.

Small Fish, Big Benefits

Wildlife Trust of India fish researcher Ashish Panda said Chepua, scientifically known as Aspidoparia morar, is a small but ecologically vital species. “It plays a crucial role in the river ecosystem and serves as an important food source for crocodiles and dolphins,” he said.

Former Khadda MLA Jatashankar Tripathi noted that after the 2015 research, efforts were made to explore its breeding potential. “The National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources (NBFGR) collected samples and planned a breeding project, but it remains pending. Successful artificial breeding could generate large-scale self-employment,” he said.

Pickle Worth ₹1,200 per Kg

Ram Singh, a pickle seller in Majhua, said around 2,000 fishermen from Bihar and UP sell Chepua daily. “Fresh fish sells for ₹250–350 per kg, while fried fish at dhabas costs ₹600–700 per kg. My Chepua pickle sells at ₹1,200 per kg because of its high nutritional value and unique taste,” he said.

Backbone of the Rural Economy

Dhabha owner Madan Kushwaha summed it up: “Chepua is not just about taste; it is the backbone of our rural economy. Over 20 dhabas in Paniahawa and Dhanaha sell 20–25 kg of Chepua daily with bhunja, earning a net income of ₹1,000–2,000 per day.”

With low investment, steady demand and local availability, Chepua fish has become an indispensable part of the region’s economy — proving that even the smallest fish can create big opportunities.