Dhaka: The Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock announced that the government has not sanctioned any artificial or indoor cultivation of Hilsa fish in the country.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, this clarification comes after several reports emerged on various newspapers, online portals, and social media platforms, suggesting the possibility of indoor or artificial Hilsa farming. In response, the ministry has taken these reports seriously and conducted a comprehensive review of the situation.
An official release from the ministry highlighted a recent meeting that focused on the indoor farming of Hilsa and other marine fisheries under the Re-circulating Aquaculture System (RAS). The meeting, chaired by adviser Farida Akhtar, included senior officials from the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, the Department of Fisheries, and the Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute. The discussions underscored the significance of Hilsa as a Geographical Indication (GI) product of Bangladesh, emphasizing its strong connection to the country’s natural ecosystems, food security, heritage, and the livelihoods of numerous fishermen and local communities.
The meeting concluded that Hilsa production is heavily reliant on natural breeding cycles and the river-based environment, making any interventions in this area highly sensitive and subject to policy decisions. It was made clear that currently, there is no government policy or approval for Hilsa farming through RAS or any other indoor, fully controlled, and intensive method. Consequently, no individual or institution has been granted permission to engage in Hilsa farming using such techniques.
The ministry further asserted that any research or experimental projects related to Hilsa cultivation must comply with the country’s existing laws, policies, and national interests, and require prior approval from the relevant government authorities. Activities undertaken without such approval are deemed unacceptable. The ministry urged all public and private stakeholders to disregard misinformation or rumors surrounding this issue.