Under the Vulnerable Group Feeding (VGF) programs, 462.88 tonnes of rice have been distributed among 2,893 poor and marginal fishermen in three upazilas of Manikganj district. This initiative aims to dissuade them from catching Jatka, a juvenile form of the Hilsa fish, for four months.

Manikganj District Fisheries Officer (DFO) Md. Saifur Rahman explained that the government allocated rice for these families to deter them from engaging in Jatka catching activities. Additionally, rice has been allocated for people residing along the banks of the Padma and Jamuna rivers in three upazilas for the same duration.

Each fisherman's card holder family received 160 kilograms of rice over four months, distributed at 40 kilograms per month. The distribution has been completed in two phases.

The government has imposed a complete prohibition on the sale, transportation, storing, and marketing of Jatka from November 1 to June 30 annually. To support fishermen in complying with this regulation, humanitarian assistance is provided to those who refrain from catching Jatka for the specified four-month period from February to May.

The distribution of rice among poor and distressed fishermen families aims to boost Hilsa fish production in the country. This initiative aligns with government efforts to promote sustainable fishing practices and protect fish populations.