Hilsa production drops in Bangladesh with annual amount at 500,000 tonnes, says fisheries minister

The government eyes producing 3 million tonnes per annum with an annual increase of 100,000 tonnes

The production of Hilsa has decreased in the country due to many reasons, Fisheries and Livestock Minister Mohammad Amin Ur Rashid Yasin has said, estimating the annual production at more than 500,000 tonnes.

Amin, who also serves as the agriculture minister, made the remarks while addressing the inauguration of the Jatka [Hilsa fry] Conservation Week in Chandpur on Tuesday.

“Although Bangladesh once used to produce a lot of Hilsa, the production has declined due to various reasons,” he said.

"However, some progress has been made following government initiatives and effective management. Currently, the country is producing more than 500,000 tonnes of Hilsa annually."

The minister believes the production can be increased to 3 million tonnes per annum if the annual amount is raised by 100,000 tonnes with concerted efforts from the stakeholders.

“To make it happen, the government has taken a strict stance against the catching of Jatka, and is conducting various activities to raise awareness among fishermen."

The government is providing rice and oil among other essentials worth around Tk 6,500 to the fishermen, he said, adding that the ration is “playing a role” in their livelihood.

Discussions and various programmes were held on the banks of the Meghna River on the occasion of the Jatka Conservation Week which ends on Apr 13.

The campaign is followed by a 58-day ban on all types of fishing in the Bay of Bengal, effective from Apr 15, to ensure the sustainable growth of marine resources.

"To make Hilsa affordable and help increase sustainable production, it is essential to protect Jatka and mother Hilsa, strictly enforce fishing bans during breeding seasons, and manage sanctuaries effectively," the minister said while announcing the ban on Monday.