To boost Hilsa production and ensure sustainable conservation, an eight-month nationwide ban on catching juvenile Hilsa (Jatka) began on Saturday, the restriction will remain in effect until June 30, 2026.

Under the supervision of the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock and implemented by the Department of Fisheries, the ban strictly prohibits the catching, transportation, marketing, buying, selling, and storage of Hilsa smaller than 25 centimeters.

Earlier, from October 4 to 25, the government carried out the “Hilsa Conservation Campaign 2025” to protect brood Hilsa during their peak breeding season.

The eggs laid by brood fish during that period have now hatched, and the young Hilsa are currently roaming coastal rivers and estuaries. Officials said if these fry are allowed to grow safely, the country's Hilsa production will increase significantly in the coming years.

According to the amended Fish Protection and Conservation Ordinance 2025 and the Fish Protection and Conservation Rules 1985, violators of the ban face up to two years of imprisonment, a fine of up to Tk 5 lakh, or both.

The Department of Fisheries, in coordination with district and upazila administrations, the Navy, Coast Guard, River Police, RAB, and other law enforcement agencies, will enforce the ban strictly across the country.