Dhaka: The Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock has clarified that the government has not approved any indoor or artificial farming of hilsa, confirming that no such initiative has received official clearance to date.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the ministry issued a press release addressing recent discussions and reports in newspapers, online media, and social platforms about indoor or artificial cultivation of hilsa. The ministry emphasized that it has thoroughly reviewed these matters.
A meeting focusing on indoor, fully controlled, and intensive cultivation of hilsa and other marine fish using Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) technology was held at the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock. The meeting took place on Sunday, chaired by Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhtar, and included senior officials from the ministry, the Department of Fisheries, and the Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute.
The ministry’s review highlighted that hilsa is a significant Geographical Indication (GI) product of Bangladesh, deeply connected to the nation’s riverine and coastal ecosystems, food security, cultural heritage, and the livelihoods of numerous fishermen. It was noted that hilsa production relies heavily on the natural reproductive cycle and riverine environment, making any farming initiative sensitive and policy-dependent.
The ministry asserted that there is currently no policy decision or government approval for RAS or any other indoor, fully controlled, or intensive hilsa farming methods. Consequently, no permission has been granted to any individual or institution for hilsa cultivation using these techniques.
It stressed that any research, experimental projects, or technical activities related to hilsa must align with existing laws, policies, and national interests, requiring prior approval from relevant government authorities. Unauthorized activities in this regard will be deemed unacceptable.
The ministry also called upon all stakeholders, including the public, to rely on government-approved and credible information, cautioning against misinformation or rumors.