Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter has called for a strict halt to catching mother fish in order to protect fish resources in the country.
The country’s future fish supply depends on protecting natural breeding populations, she said while speaking at the 12th national conference organised by Bangladesh Small Fishers Association at the Abdus Salam Hall of the Jatiya Press Club on Tuesday.
The adviser said, “The fish caught by our fishermen from rivers and the sea are all natural resources. If we fail to protect them, there will be no fish left in the future. Fishermen must abide by the fishing ban during the restricted period.”
Addressing the fishermen, Farida said, “You are the ones who keep our people fed with fish. You are not small – rather, you are a large and vital part of our nation’s population.”
“We don’t just eat rice; we also depend on fish, vegetables, and greens. If you stop fishing, none of us can eat fish. Your hard work ensures food security for all, and that should never be underestimated,” she added.
She further stated that law enforcement agencies, including the Coast Guard and the Navy, must act to ensure Indian fishermen do not intrude into Bangladesh’s waters.
Regarding support for fishermen during the fishing ban period, Farida said the ministries concerned have been requested to increase VGF rice allocations, adding, “As long as I remain in the government, I will work for your welfare.”
The adviser added that the ministry is working to ensure that each fisherman receives at least 50kg of rice during the restricted period, and discussions are ongoing with relevant ministries to determine whether cash assistance can also be provided alongside VGF aid.
The adviser also highlighted the plight of fishermen who go missing or die during disasters, leaving families without confirmation of their fate or eligibility for aid.
