A nationwide eight-month ban on catching juvenile Hilsa, locally known as Jatka, came into effect on Saturday and will remain in force until June 30, 2026.

The move aims to increase Hilsa production and promote sustainable conservation of the country’s national fish.

Supervised by the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock and enforced by Department of Fisheries, the ban strictly prohibits the catching, transportation, marketing, buying, selling and storage of Hilsa measuring less than 25 centimetres in length.

The restriction follows the Hilsa Conservation Campaign 2025, held from October 4 to 25, during which the government took measures to protect brood Hilsa during their peak breeding season.

Officials said the eggs laid during that period have now hatched and the young fish are currently moving through coastal rivers and estuaries. Allowing these juvenile Hilsa to mature is expected to significantly boost national production in the coming years.

Under the amended Fish Protection and Conservation Ordinance 2025 and the Fish Protection and Conservation Rules 1985, those who violate the ban may face up to two years in jail, a fine of up to Tk 5 lakh or both.

To ensure strict enforcement, the Department of Fisheries will work in coordination with district and upazila administrations, the Navy, Coast Guard, River Police, RAB and other law enforcement agencies.

Officials emphasized that the success of the initiative depends on collective efforts to protect the young Hilsa, ensuring the long-term sustainability of one of the country’s most valuable fish resources.

FP/A