To protect fish during their breeding season, the Chhattisgarh government has announced a ban on fishing in the state. This ban, effective from June 16, 2025, to August 15, 2025, applies to all rivers, ponds, and reservoirs in Chhattisgarh. During this period, fishing, killing, and selling of fish will be prohibited.
The restrictions are implemented to safeguard fish during the monsoon season when they lay eggs and require a secure environment. This regulation is enforced under the Chhattisgarh Fisheries Act of 1972, aiming to provide fish with a protected breeding period and foster population growth, which will benefit farmers in the future.
Exceptions to the ban include water bodies isolated from rivers and streams. Additionally, the ban does not apply to farmers engaged in cage culture.
Violators of this rule may face imprisonment for up to one year, a fine of ₹10,000, or both.
Furthermore, the state has completely banned the rearing, selling, purchasing, or importing of foreign species such as the African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) and the bighead carp (Hypophthalmichthys nobilis). These species are deemed detrimental to native aquatic life and are therefore prohibited under the directives of the Indian government and the state government. Violations will result in a penalty of one year’s imprisonment, a fine of ₹10,000, or both, regardless of whether the water body is privately or government-owned.