Chandpur: Fisheries and Livestock and Agriculture Minister Mohammad Aminur Rashid today emphasized the need for strict enforcement of laws to stop the catching of Jatka, underscoring the collective responsibility of all stakeholders to conserve this vital resource.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Minister Rashid made these remarks during the inauguration of ‘Jatka Conservation Week-2026’ where he served as the chief guest. He underscored the significance of Hilsa as a national asset and source of pride for the country, recalling initiatives by past leaders like President Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia to boost Hilsa production.
The minister highlighted the fluctuating trends in Hilsa production, which once plummeted from around 2 million tons to nearly 200,000 tons. However, due to concerted conservation efforts, production is on the rise again. He stressed the importance of halting Jatka fishing to potentially restore production levels to their previous highs.
Chandpur, a major hub for Hilsa production, contributes nearly 80 percent of the total output in the country. The decline in Hilsa numbers, primarily due to Jatka fishing, has prompted Minister Rashid to call for increased public awareness, noting the destructive impact of catching juvenile Hilsa on future fish populations.
The minister also mentioned government assistance to fishermen, including provisions like rice and oil valued at around Taka 6,500, urging responsible fishing practices to complement these support measures. Fishermen were requested to abstain from fishing for a minimum of two months to allow juvenile Hilsa to mature.
Rashid reiterated the global recognition of Hilsa as a brand synonymous with Bangladesh and encouraged collective efforts to uphold this reputation. He expressed optimism that improved environmental management in the chars and natural habitats of Chandpur could further enhance Hilsa production.
The event was chaired by Secretary of the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock Md. Delwar Hossain, with several dignitaries present, including Chandpur-3 MP Sheikh Farid Ahmed Manik and other key officials. Jatka Conservation Week-2026 is being observed across 20 Hilsa-rich districts, featuring various awareness activities to support the central programs. This year’s theme is: “If we stop catching Jatka, rivers and seas will be filled with Hilsa.”