The general public is hereby informed that, with the objective of protecting the natural breeding and propagation of fish during the monsoon season, the Government of Chhattisgarh has declared the period from June 16, 2026, to August 15, 2026, as a Closed Season under Section 3(2) of the Chhattisgarh Riverine Fisheries Act, 1972.
During this period, fishing activities will be completely prohibited in all rivers, streams, reservoirs, and other natural water bodies across the state. The purpose of the ban is to provide a safe environment for fish during their breeding season and to ensure the conservation of fish resources, thereby supporting increased fish production in the future.
According to information received from the Fisheries Department, the restriction will apply to all natural water resources across the state. However, small ponds or water bodies that are not connected to any river or stream, as well as cage culture units operating in reservoirs, have been exempted from the ban.
The department has clarified that anyone found engaging in fishing activities during the prohibited period will face action as per the law. Under the Chhattisgarh Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Second Act, 2025, published in the Chhattisgarh Gazette (Extraordinary), violators may be fined up to ₹25,000 under Section 5 of the Chhattisgarh Fisheries Area Act, 1948.
The Fisheries Department has appealed to fish farmers, fishermen’s cooperatives, and the general public to comply with the restrictions during the fish breeding season and contribute to the conservation of fish resources.
The ban is considered an important step toward preserving natural fish stocks and maintaining the long-term sustainability of fish production in the state.