Rajshahi Division has emerged as one of Bangladesh’s leading freshwater fish-producing regions, significantly expanding its market across the country after meeting local demand. Freshwater fish from Rajshahi is now being supplied to at least 25 districts, including Dhaka, and neighboring India.
Economic Impact and Production Scale
Massive farming of indigenous species including Rui, Katla, and Mrigal has created a significant economic impact in the rural economy of North Bengal. According to Saifuddin Yahia, Director of the Rajshahi Divisional Fisheries Department, fish farming is conducted in a total of 449,653 ponds across the eight districts of Rajshahi division. This involves about 1.65 lakh people and produces over five lakh metric tons of fish annually.
Market Supply and Employment
Official sources indicate that after meeting local demand, about 150,000 metric tons of fish are supplied from Rajshahi to different parts of the country. This sector employs approximately 300,000 people. Natore and Naogaon are leading in carp-type freshwater fish production. Every day, more than five hundred trucks carry aquatic fish from Rajshahi to various regions.
Challenges and Government Support
Despite its success, farmers face increased production costs due to rising fish feed prices and truck fares. Stakeholders suggest that government support to control the price of fish feed and provide financial incentives could further enhance the sector’s vibrancy. The Department of Fisheries is also giving training to more than 1500 farmers annually on modern pisciculture and safety.
