Hilsa fish, a cherished delicacy, has become nearly unattainable for low-income groups and even for lower-middle and middle-class families due to soaring prices. Many have almost forgotten its taste. To address this, the Bangladesh Fisheries Development Corporation (BFDC) has taken the initiative to sell Hilsa at an affordable price in Dhaka. Fish weighing between 450 to 850 grams will be available at Tk 600 per kilogram.

The sale will begin on Sunday at the BFDC fish outlet in Karwan Bazar, following a formal inauguration by Farida Akhter, Advisor to the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock. According to Suraiya Akhter Jahan, BFDC Chairperson, the sale will continue daily from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., subject to stock availability. BFDC Director Advaita Chandra Das noted that 850 kilograms of Hilsa will be sold on a first-come, first-served basis, with the stock expected to be cleared within a week.

This initiative aims to overcome supply and pricing challenges in the Hilsa market and ensure accessibility for the general public. Jointly implemented by BFDC and the Bangladesh Marine Fisheries Association, the program is promoted under the slogan: “Unparalleled in flavor and aroma—Hilsa for all.” Enam Chowdhury, President of the Marine Fisheries Association, emphasized that the program is profit-free and aims to provide affordable Hilsa to people. He added that the fish were caught in the Bay of Bengal using fishing vessels, and the success of this pilot project could pave the way for larger initiatives.