Shibchar:State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salauddin Tuku emphasized that the development of the country and the improvement in the quality of people's lives will be achieved under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. He expressed these views during a VGF rice distribution program among fishermen's families, which was part of the 'Mother Hilsa Protection Campaign-2026' at Charjanajat Elias Ahmed Chowdhury High School.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the event was organized by the Shibchar Upazila Administration and the Upazila Fisheries Office. Tuku highlighted the importance of protecting Hilsa, describing it as a national asset and a Geographical Indication (GI) product of Bangladesh.
He stressed the need for strict enforcement of the government-declared ban to boost reproduction and overall production of Hilsa. From October 8-29, harvesting, transporting, marketing, and selling Hilsa will be prohibited. Tuku urged the administration and law enforcement agencies to remain vigilant to prevent any violations during this period.
Madaripur is recognized as a key region for Hilsa production, and Tuku noted that increased production would primarily benefit fishermen. He encouraged the fishing community to view the 22-day restriction as an investment in their future prosperity.
Reaffirming the government's commitment to supporting the fishing community, the state minister reiterated the policy, "The water belongs to those who own the nets." He assured that food assistance under the VGF program is being provided to support vulnerable fishing families during the ban period.
The program was chaired by Deputy Commissioner Miss Morjina Akter and attended by Sayeed Uddin Ahmad Hanjala, lawmaker of Madaripur-1 constituency, as the guest of honor. During the event, Tuku distributed 25 kilograms of rice to each of 151 local fishermen's families.