Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Monday favoured the need to start breeding crocodiles in the state's rivers, especially the Beas and the Sutlej.
He said this will help the riverine ecosystem, as crocodiles were found in abundance in these rivers six decades ago.
During a meeting with Forests and Wildlife Preservation Department he appreciated the efforts of the for re-introduction of gharials, an important component of the riverine ecosystem.
He also lauded the efforts for conservation of Indus dolphins that were declared as the state aquatic animal in 2019.
The Chief Minister, who is a known nature lover, asked the officials to revive the original flora and fauna keeping in view the state's natural climate and habitat.