Post by : Mamta

India has received the first batch of hilsa fish from Bangladesh just before Durga Puja, the most important festival for Bengalis. The much-loved fish, known as “ilish” in Bengali, is a tradition during the festive season. On Wednesday, September 17, 2025, ten trucks carrying 50 tonnes of hilsa crossed the Petrapole border and entered India. By Thursday morning, these fish were available in Kolkata and Howrah markets.

Bangladesh Approves Special Export

Bangladesh has officially allowed the export of 1,200 tonnes of hilsa to India as a goodwill gesture. This is despite the fact that hilsa exports are banned in Bangladesh due to local demand and shortage. However, every year during Durga Puja, special permissions are granted to India. This year’s export will take place between September 16 and October 5.

Symbol of Friendship Between Two Nations

Officials in Bangladesh have said that sending hilsa to India during Durga Puja shows the “enduring friendship” between the two neighbouring countries. For Bengalis in India, especially in West Bengal, hilsa is more than just food—it is part of their cultural identity. The special permission shows cooperation between the two nations beyond politics and trade.

Demand For Hilsa During Festivals

Hilsa fish has a special place in Bengali households, especially during monsoon and Durga Puja. Families eagerly wait for this seasonal delicacy from the Padma River in Bangladesh. However, local markets in Kolkata have faced low supply and poor quality this year. Residents are excited that fresh Padma hilsa has now arrived, as they believe it has the best taste.

Importers Face Difficulties With Limited Time

Even though Bangladesh has allowed 1,200 tonnes this year, Indian importers are worried. The Fish Importers’ Association said that the limited export time of 20 days is too short to manage such a huge consignment. Because of this, importers often fail to bring in the full quantity of hilsa permitted by Bangladesh.

Past Records of Shortfall in Imports

History shows that Indian importers rarely get the full quota of hilsa. Last year, Bangladesh approved 2,420 tonnes, but only 577 tonnes actually reached India. In 2023, Bangladesh permitted 3,950 tonnes, but just 587 tonnes were imported. The main problem is the short shipment window of 30–45 days, which makes it difficult to transport such a large quantity smoothly.

Importers Request Longer Export Window

The Fish Importers’ Association has written to Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, asking for more flexible rules. They suggested that hilsa export permission should not be time-bound. If there is no deadline, importers can manage the shipments better and ensure that more hilsa reaches Indian markets.

History of Hilsa Trade Between India and Bangladesh

Since 1996, India has been importing around 5,000 tonnes of hilsa fish duty-free from Bangladesh every year. But in 2012, Bangladesh banned exports completely due to high local demand and low supply. In 2019, they restarted small-scale exports to India only during Durga Puja. This limited export has continued as a tradition, but with strict restrictions.

Impact of Climate Change on Hilsa

Another challenge in hilsa production is changing climate conditions. Hilsa fish are very sensitive to water flow, river currents, and weather. Heavy rains, floods, and unpredictable water levels affect both their taste and availability. Fishermen say that the catch has been lower in recent years, making hilsa more expensive and difficult to get.

Low Supply in Local Markets This Year

Usually, Kolkata markets are full of hilsa during monsoon and Durga Puja. But this year, supply was very poor. Most of the hilsa available was of bad quality and came from Gujarat, leaving customers disappointed. Now, with the arrival of Padma hilsa from Bangladesh, fish lovers in West Bengal are eager to buy.

Chief Minister Highlights Local Cultivation

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has also spoken about hilsa production. On September 16, 2025, she reminded people that the state has been trying to cultivate hilsa locally. She said that a research centre was built in Diamond Harbour in 2013 to improve hilsa farming. She added that hilsa is now found not only in the Padma River but also in Kolaghat and Diamond Harbour.

Excitement Among Kolkata Residents

Residents of Kolkata expressed happiness about the arrival of hilsa. Many said they had not eaten any good-quality hilsa this season because of the shortage. One resident explained that once Padma hilsa reaches the market, they will definitely buy it. For many families, having hilsa during Puja is an emotional tradition and part of the festive celebration.

Emotional Value of Hilsa for Bengalis

Hilsa is not just a fish—it carries deep cultural value for Bengalis. It is served at weddings, religious events, and especially during Durga Puja. Its taste, flavour, and connection to rivers like the Padma make it very special. The arrival of hilsa from Bangladesh during Puja season is seen as a gift that strengthens cultural bonds.

Economic Importance of Hilsa Trade

Beyond culture, hilsa also has economic importance. It provides income for thousands of fishermen, traders, and sellers in both Bangladesh and India. During the festive season, hilsa trade increases sharply, and its price becomes a big topic in local markets. The current shipment of 1,200 tonnes will help boost the fish market in West Bengal.

Need For Long-Term Solutions

Experts believe that both countries must work together to ensure smooth hilsa trade in the future. Extending export deadlines, improving transport facilities, and addressing the impact of climate change on rivers are key steps. Without such measures, the availability of hilsa will continue to fall short of demand.

Hilsa Brings Hope and Happiness

The arrival of 1,200 tonnes of hilsa from Bangladesh has brought joy to Bengali households ahead of Durga Puja. While challenges remain in managing shipments and dealing with climate impact, the gesture highlights strong ties between the two countries. For now, fish markets in Kolkata and Howrah are set to see long lines of excited customers waiting to take home the beloved Padma hilsa.

Hilsa Fish Export, Bangladesh India Trade, Durga Puja Hilsa, Padma Hilsa Kolkata, Fish Import Issues