To increase the production of Hilsa and ensure sustainable conservation, a nationwide ban on Jatka Hilsa harvesting is starting from today, November 1, 2025. This 8-month ban will continue until June 30, 2026.

Under this ban, under the supervision of the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock and implemented by the Department of Fisheries, the harvesting, transportation, marketing, purchase, sale and storage of 25 cm small Hilsa (Jatka) will be completely prohibited.

Earlier, from October 4 to October 25, 2025 (19 Ashwin to 9 Kartik 1432 Bangabhabh), the ‘Hilsa Conservation Campaign-2025’ was implemented to protect reproductive Hilsa during the main breeding season of Hilsa. During that time, the fry produced by the hatching of eggs released from egg-bearing Hilsa are currently roaming in coastal rivers and estuaries. If these fry can grow safely, the country’s hilsa production will increase further in the future.

According to the Fisheries Protection and Conservation (Amended) Ordinance, 2025 and the Fisheries Protection and Conservation Rules, 1985, violating the ban is punishable with rigorous imprisonment for a term not exceeding 2 years or a fine not exceeding 5 lakh taka, or both.

The Department of Fisheries will strictly implement this ban across the country in collaboration with district and upazila administrations, Navy, Coast Guard, Naval Police, RAB, and local law enforcement agencies.