BORDER GUARDS STEP UP SURVEILLANCE AS HILSA SMUGGLING RISES ALONG INDIA-BANGLADESH FRONTIER

September 28, 2026

Border security forces along the India-Bangladesh frontier have intensified surveillance following reports of illegal movement of hilsa in both directions ahead of the festive season. Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has sought assistance from the Border Security Force (BSF) to curb what it described as smuggling of Padma hilsa into India and Gujarat-origin hilsa into Bangladesh.

The development follows an unusual reversal in the traditional hilsa trade. India began exporting hilsa to Bangladesh earlier this year, with most consignments reportedly originating from Gujarat. However, Bangladesh halted imports from India on September 23, cancelling 103 no-objection certificates issued to importers, amid concerns over the quality of imported fish and allegations that some Gujarat hilsa was being sold as Padma hilsa.

According to BSF sources cited by The Telegraph, the BGB has reported that Gujarat hilsa continues to reach Bangladeshi markets through unauthorised routes. At the same time, Bangladesh has reported increased demand for its own Padma hilsa amid a relatively lean harvest, with concerns that illegal movement across the border could further affect prices.

The BSF and BGB have reportedly increased surveillance along riverine and land routes. Officials said smugglers may use small boats operating under the cover of fishing activity, while concealed consignments have also been detected in commercial vehicles. Riverine routes and transit areas in Malda, Murshidabad and North 24-Parganas have been identified as areas requiring heightened monitoring.

The unusual two-way movement comes as hilsa remains a major cultural and commercial commodity in both countries. Bangladesh has also highlighted conservation and production measures aimed at strengthening domestic hilsa stocks and protecting the fishery.