During Durga Puja in October, the people of West Bengal might face a shortage of their favorite fish, Hilsa, due to new restrictions on its export from Bangladesh.
Bangladesh has tightened its existing ban on Hilsa's export
Durga Puja, the biggest festival in West Bengal, is celebrated by millions of people. The availability of Hilsa fish, a much-loved delicacy, often adds to the festive spirit. However, Bangladesh, the largest producer of Hilsa, has tightened its existing ban on the export of this fish to India, which may affect the supply during the festival this year.
Bangladesh govt is trying to ensure the favorite fish reaches the local people first
The decision to enforce this ban comes from Bangladesh's interim government, which was formed just a month ago. Farida Akhtar, an advisor to the Ministry of Fisheries in Bangladesh, stated, "The government is trying to ensure that the favorite fish reaches the local people first." She emphasized, "Despite the ban, a lot of fish are still going to India. Now we will not allow Hilsa fish to go across the border."
Previous govt used to lift the export ban during Durga Puja
Hilsa is the national fish of Bangladesh, but its availability is limited to those who can afford it. The rich and middle class primarily consume this fish, while it remains beyond the reach of the poor. Farida Akhtar added, "The previous government used to lift the ban on it during Durga Puja. The government used to see the lifting of the ban as a gift. I don't think we need to give this gift this time because if we do so, our people will not be able to eat this fish."
A shift away from the Hilsa Diplomacy
This decision marks a shift away from the "Hilsa Diplomacy" practiced by former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who often allowed the supply of Hilsa fish to India during festivals. Sheikh Hasina had previously sent Hilsa to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on several occasions, and in 2017, she even gifted 30 kg of Hilsa to former Indian President Pranab Mukherjee in an effort to resolve the long-standing water dispute between India and Bangladesh.
When asked if the new interim government would consider sending Hilsa to India to improve bilateral relations, Farida Akhtar responded, "We will improve relations in other ways. India is our friend. But we should not do anything that is not in the interest of our people."
Bangladesh is a major producer of Hilsa
Bangladesh is a major producer of Hilsa, with fishermen catching around 600,000 tonnes of fish annually, mostly from the sea. In 2017, Hilsa fish was recognized as a geographical indicator of the country, highlighting its significance. In previous years, the Bangladesh government allowed the export of 3,000 to 5,000 tonnes of Hilsa during Durga Puja. However, this year, due to the shortage of fish in the local market, the government has decided to maintain the export ban.
Prices of Hilsa have surged
Reports from Bangladeshi media suggest that the prices of Hilsa have surged in the local markets, with one kilogram now costing around 1,500 Bangladeshi Taka—an increase of 150-200 Taka compared to last year. Fishermen attribute this price hike to a reduced catch of Hilsa this season.
As a result, West Bengal may have to find alternative sources for Hilsa during Durga Puja, or the festive celebrations might lack this beloved delicacy.
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