Ministry Warns Against Rumors on Indoor Hilsa Farming
In response to recent discussions appearing in newspapers, online platforms and social media regarding the indoor or artificial cultivation of hilsa fish, the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock has taken the matter under serious review.
A high-level meeting was held on 1 February at the ministry, focusing on the potential use of recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) technology for indoor, fully controlled and intensive cultivation of hilsa and other marine species. The meeting was chaired by Farida Akhtar, adviser to the ministry, and was attended by senior representatives from the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, the Department of Fisheries and the Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute.
During the review, it was reaffirmed that hilsa is a nationally significant geographical indication (GI) product of Bangladesh. The species is strongly linked with the country's natural riverine and coastal ecosystems, cultural heritage, food security and the livelihoods of thousands of fishers and fisherfolk. Given hilsa's dependence on its natural breeding cycle and riverine environment, any initiative involving its production is considered both highly sensitive and policy dependent.
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The ministry confirmed that no policy decision or government approval currently exists regarding the use of RAS or any other indoor, fully controlled or intensive method for cultivating hilsa. Therefore, no permission has been granted to any individual, organisation or institution to conduct such cultivation or related activities.
The ministry emphasised that all research, experimental projects or technical work involving hilsa must strictly adhere to existing laws, government policies and national interests. Prior approval from relevant authorities is mandatory. Any unauthorised activity in this regard is deemed unacceptable.
The ministry strongly urges all stakeholders and the general public to rely only on accurate, government-approved information and to avoid being influenced by misleading claims or rumours circulating in various media.
