Agartala, September 18, 2025: With Durga Puja fever building up across Tripura, the much-awaited Padma hilsa has finally reached local markets, adding flavour to the festive spirit of Bengalis. Considered an indispensable delicacy during the Puja, the arrival of the prized fish has sparked excitement among food lovers.

Importer Bimal Roy informed that on Thursday, one metric ton of hilsa entered Tripura from Bangladesh, with another ton expected on Friday. He estimated that 15–20 tons might be imported before Durga Puja. However, uncertainty looms as Bangladesh is set to impose a temporary ban on hilsa exports to ensure safe breeding during the peak spawning season.

Roy noted that demand for hilsa surges during Durga Puja, but this year’s supply is smaller in size compared to last year and may fetch higher prices in the state’s markets.

Hilsa export from Bangladesh has been permitted since 2019, with shipments made to India every Puja season despite earlier restrictions. Last year, Bangladesh’s Ministry of Commerce reduced the approved export volume to 2,420 tons from an initial 3,000 tons. This year, the interim government has further cut exports to 1,200 tons, with a minimum export price fixed at $12.50 (₹1,057) per kilogram.

For fish-loving Bengalis of Tripura, however, even the limited arrival of Padma hilsa is enough to heighten the festive mood ahead of Durga Utsav.