Fisheries and Livestock Minister Mohammad Amin Ur Rashid on Wednesday stressed the need for intensified scientific research to boost hilsa production in Bangladesh, with a particular focus on conserving jatka and improving breeding success.
Speaking at a workshop titled “Hilsa Research: Achievements, Jatka Conservation and Future Actions” held at the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council auditorium, Amin urged scientists to take a more proactive role in identifying effective strategies.
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“It is crucial to work in a planned way to maximise jatka production and ensure proper spawning of hilsa eggs to increase their population,” he said, marking Jatka Conservation Week 2026 (April 7–13).
The minister also called for research to enhance production without compromising the fish’s natural taste and quality. “We need innovative methods that can increase output while preserving the unique characteristics of hilsa, so that domestic demand can be met.”
Addressing fishermen, he said they have a vital role in protecting jatka. “The nets and rivers belong to you—so you can suggest effective measures to stop jatka catching.”
Highlighting the growing scarcity of hilsa, he underscored the need to make the prized fish more affordable and accessible through increased production.
State Minister Sultan Salauddin Tuku said hilsa is a geographical indication (GI) product of Bangladesh and accounts for around 70–80 percent of global production, stressing the importance of safeguarding this national resource.
“If jatka catching can be completely stopped, hilsa production will increase significantly, contributing to the economy and strengthening the country’s prosperity,” he said.
He also noted that food assistance has been provided to 40,000 fisher families over the past two months. Each family is receiving 80 kg of rice, 12 kg of flour, 10 litres of oil, 4 kg of sugar, 8 kg of lentils and 16 kg of potatoes, worth about Tk 6,000—an unprecedented level of support.
Tuku urged compliance with fishing bans during restricted periods, adding that local MPs would assist in ensuring awareness and enforcement.