Dhaka: Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter today emphasized the importance of protecting Hilsha fish, describing it as a ‘national pride of the country’. ‘It is our national duty to protect Hilsha fish as Hilsha has given us a special status across the world,’ she stated while addressing a workshop titled ‘Jatka and Hilsha protection implementation 2024-’25 its evaluation and future responsibilities’ as the chief guest. The Department of Fisheries (DoF) organized the program at the CIRDAP auditorium in the city.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the adviser highlighted that the responsibility for protecting the national fish extends beyond the ministry of fisheries and livestock, suggesting that even the chief adviser’s office has a role to play. Addressing concerns over the price of Hilsha fish, Farida Akhter remarked that the public should not be dismayed by its higher price, asserting that good things often come with a higher cost. She emphasized that Hilsha, as a symbol of national pride, should be enjoyed occasionally rather than daily.
Discussing the pricing of Hilsha, the adviser noted that selling the national fish at Taka 2000 per kg is inappropriate, given that the fish is available in only 11 countries worldwide. She pointed out that the taste of Hilsha from the rivers of Padma and Meghna is particularly unique. The adviser expressed hope that if the Bangladesh Fisheries Development Corporation (BFDC) could sell Hilsha at a minimum price, it would influence the market positively.
She also mentioned plans to discuss with the ministry of commerce, National Consumers Rights Protection Department, and wholesalers to prevent unnecessary price hikes. The Hilsha protection drive, initiated in 2014, has significantly contributed to the preservation of fisheries resources in Bangladesh. Seasonal restrictions during the breeding season, alternative livelihood support for fishermen, and mass awareness campaigns have successfully reduced ‘Jatka’ fishing and boosted Hilsha production.
Deputy Director of the Department of Fisheries M Ahsan Hasib Khan presented the keynote paper at the workshop, while Additional Director General (Current Charge) M Zia Haider Chowdhury delivered the welcome address. The event was also attended by Fisheries and Livestock Secretary M Tofazzal Hossen, Additional Secretary Syed Naoara Jahan, BFDC Chairman Farah Shammi, senior ministry officials, university teachers, and fisheries department officials. The function was presided over by Director General of the DOF Dr M Abdur Rauf.