Dhaka:A nationwide ban on catching Jatka, which are young hilsa fish, has come into effect from Saturday midnight in Bangladesh. This measure aims to enhance hilsa production and ensure the sustainable conservation of the country's national fish. Bangladesh is responsible for producing over 80 percent of the world's total hilsa, as stated by officials.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock has issued an official release stating that the catching, transporting, marketing, buying, selling, and storing of hilsa fish smaller than 25 centimeters, known as Jatka, is strictly prohibited during the ban period. The restriction, which lasts for eight months, will continue until June 2027.
Previously, the government imposed a 22-day hilsa fishing ban from October 8 to 29 during the primary breeding season to protect mother hilsas. The fry hatched during this period are now present in coastal rivers and estuaries, where they remain for at least five to eight months before maturing.
Officials have indicated that if these young fry are allowed to grow safely, the future production of hilsa in the country is expected to increase. The Fish Conservation and Protection (Amended) Ordinance, 2025, along with the Fish Conservation and Protection Rules, 1985, stipulate that violations of this ban could result in up to two years of rigorous imprisonment, a fine of up to TK five lakh, or both.
The Department of Fisheries will enforce the ban in collaboration with district and upazila administrations, the Bangladesh Navy, Coast Guard, River Police, Special Response Battalion (SRB), and other local law enforcement agencies throughout the country.