Festive Famine: Bangladesh’s Hilsa Export Ban and Its Ripple Effects on India

• Bangladesh’s Hilsa Export Ban: Bangladesh has imposed a ban on the export of Padma Hilsa fish to India during Durga Puja, disrupting the long-standing tradition of “Hilsa diplomacy,” which represents cultural and diplomatic ties between the two nations.
• Geopolitical Implications: The decision is seen as a reflection of the interim government’s nationalistic policies and a response to domestic concerns, leading to rising prices in India, particularly West Bengal, where Hilsa is integral to festive celebrations.
• Impact on India-Bangladesh Relations: The ban raises concerns about future bilateral relations, as continued restrictions on exports may strain cultural and economic exchanges between the two countries, potentially weakening diplomatic ties.

Introduction

Bangladesh’s recent move to halt the export of Padma Hilsa fish to India during the Durga Puja festival carries significant geopolitical ramifications. This decision by Bangladesh’s interim government disrupts the tradition of “Hilsa diplomacy,” which has long symbolized cultural exchange and diplomatic goodwill between the two neighbouring countries.

Context of the Ban  

The comprehensive restriction on Hilsa exports comes at a time when Bangladesh is focusing on domestic consumption due to rising prices and a shortage of this national pride. Farida Akhtar, an advisor to the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, stated that the government could not permit exports while people in the country struggle to access the product. This decision is impactful since Hilsa, particularly from the Padma River, is very popular among Bengali families and is traditionally consumed during festivals like Durga Puja.

Historically, relations between India and Bangladesh have included cultural exchanges, with the Hilsa fish playing a role in the cultural bond between the two nations. Until the end of the previous government under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the export of Hilsa was permitted, with large quantities being sent to India, especially during festivals. For example, in 2023, Bangladesh exported over 3,950 tonnes of Hilsa fish to India, strengthening both historical and commercial ties between the countries.

Geopolitical Implications

The current ban can be seen as a result of changes in Bangladesh’s political landscape following the departure of Sheikh Hasina. The interim government seems to have a more nationalistic inclination, prioritizing domestic needs over international goodwill in its efforts to improve the economy. This shift is further exacerbated by growing hostility toward Indians in Bangladesh, which seems to be influencing policy decisions.

Analysts suggest that the ban is partly a response to domestic pressure, with segments of the Bangladeshi population viewing the export of a national asset during a time of shortage as unreasonable. There are already problems arising from the ban, especially for India, and West Bengal in particular. Market trends indicate a steep rise in Hilsa prices, with current rates climbing from ₹1,800 to ₹2,400 per kg. This price increase is likely to dampen the festive mood during Durga Puja, as Hilsa plays a prominent role in many of the festival’s traditional cuisines.

What Does the Future Hold?

In light of the ban, Indian consumers may have to turn to alternative sources for Hilsa, such as importing fish from Myanmar or sourcing from other Indian states like Odisha and Gujarat. However, these alternatives may not fully satisfy the existing demand, especially since the taste and quality of Padma Hilsa hold a special place in Bengali cuisine.

The ban has also raised concerns about the future of India-Bangladesh relations. If the interim government continues to prioritize domestic consumption and adopts a more isolationist policy, it could strain the established diplomatic relationship, which has been built on cultural and economic exchanges. “Hilsa diplomacy,” which has provided a positive framework for bilateral relations, may be at risk if such bans become a recurring pattern in future interactions.

Conclusion

The ban on Padma Hilsa exports to India during Durga Puja underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics in the region. It illustrates how domestic priorities can conflict with international relations, especially when cultural and economic ties are tested. The future of India-Bangladesh relations will hinge on both nations’ ability to address these challenges and seek collaborative solutions, even in the face of rising nationalism and shifting political landscapes.

References:

• _{Bangladesh Bans Padma Hilsa Export To India, Prices Likely To Cross Rs 2,000-https://www.republicworld.com/india/bangladesh-bans-padma-hilsa-export-to-india-prices-likely-to-cross-rs-2000-durga-puja}
• _{Bangladesh bans export of padma hilsa to India this festive season-https://www.businesstoday.in/india/story/bangladesh-bans-export-of-padma-hilsa-to-india-this-festive-season-445011-2024-09-09}
• _{Bangladesh plays spoilsport, bans Padma Hilsa fish export to India ahead of Durga Puja-https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/bangladesh-plays-spoilsport-bans-padma-hilsa-  export-to-india-ahead-of-durga-puja-101725937816166.html}
• _{Why Did Bangladesh Ban Padma Hilsa Exports Ahead Of Durga Puja?-https://www.timesnownews.com/india/why-did-bangladesh-ban-padma-hilsa-exports-ahead-of-durga-puja-article-113209746}

Parag Gilada

Parag is pursuing his master’s at the Jindal School of International Affairs. Views expressed are the author’s own.