India–Bangladesh Release Fishermen in Goodwill Maritime Exchange

India and Bangladesh Conduct Humanitarian Exchange of Detained Fishermen

India and Bangladesh have completed a reciprocal release of fishermen who had inadvertently crossed the international maritime boundary in the Bay of Bengal. The coordinated action highlights the maturing bilateral mechanism that prioritises humane treatment, livelihood protection and timely resolution of maritime detentions.

Reciprocal Release of Individuals and Vessels

Under the latest exchange, India released 38 Bangladeshi fishermen , while Bangladesh freed 47 Indian fishermen and returned their operable boats. Officials confirmed that the fishermen drifted across maritime limits accidentally—an issue that often arises due to shared fishing grounds, poor weather visibility and limited navigation tools on small vessels.

Humanitarian Framework Underpins the Process

The Ministry of External Affairs stated that such exchanges are conducted with sensitivity to the economic realities of fishing communities. India reaffirmed its commitment to securing the welfare of its nationals and enabling their safe repatriation when detained for unintended boundary violations.

Part of a Larger Pattern in the Bay of Bengal

This exchange follows similar releases earlier in 2025, when India freed 90 Bangladeshi fishermen and Bangladesh released 95 Indian fishermen . Experts note that regular cross-border detentions reflect both the ecological dynamics of the Bay and the challenges faced by artisanal fishermen during peak seasons.

Exam Oriented Facts

• India released 38 Bangladeshi fishermen ; Bangladesh released 47 Indian fishermen .

• Operable fishing vessels were also returned by both sides.

• Earlier in 2025: 90 Bangladeshi and 95 Indian fishermen were exchanged.

• Releases are guided by a humanitarian bilateral mechanism .