The excitement of Durga Puja is rising across Bengal, and along with it comes the joy of the Bengali palate — the much-coveted Padma Hilsa has finally arrived in Tripura’s markets. 

For food-loving Bengalis, Hilsa is indispensable during the festive season, and when it comes from the Padma River, the experience is beyond words.

Importer Bimal Roy informed that the exact quantity of Hilsa permitted for import into Tripura from Bangladesh is still uncertain. However, on Thursday, the first consignment of just one metric ton reached the state. Another ton is expected on Friday. He estimated that around 15 to 20 metric tons may arrive in Tripura before Durga Puja. But with Bangladesh set to impose a ban on Hilsa exports soon to ensure safe breeding during its peak spawning season, there is uncertainty over how much of the prized fish will actually reach consumers in Tripura.

Roy further noted that Bengalis cannot imagine celebrating Durga Puja without Hilsa, which fuels high demand during the festival. Compared to last year, he said, the Padma Hilsa this season is smaller in size and may fetch higher prices in the local markets during the festivities.

Notably, according to Bangladesh’s National Export Policy (2015–18), Hilsa is listed as a conditionally exportable item. The country first permitted Hilsa exports in 2019, and between then and 2021, the fish was regularly sent to India during Durga Puja. Although Sheikh Hasina’s government had banned Hilsa exports, exceptions have been made during Puja over the past few years.

Last year, Bangladesh’s Ministry of Commerce initially decided to allow 3,000 tons of Hilsa exports to India, later reducing it to 2,420 tons under the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus. This year, however, the interim government has cut the quota further, permitting only 1,200 tons of Hilsa exports. Each kilogram has been priced at a minimum of USD 12.50 — equivalent to around ₹1,057 in Indian currency.