| Dhaka, Sunday, 8 Bhadra (23 August): Minister for Fisheries and Livestock, and Agriculture, Mohammed Amin Ur Rashid today called for boosting fish production to meet growing consumer demand, stressing that quality must not be compromised under any circumstances. He urged researchers, scientists, and entrepreneurs to work together to ensure safe food for the domestic market while improving the credibility of Bangladeshi products in international trade.
The minister made the remarks as the chief guest at the “Aquaculture Knowledge Day 2026,” organized by Fishtech BD Limited at Hotel Sarina in the capital’s Banani. Highlighting current agricultural dynamics, the minister stated that while the country no longer faces major food production deficits, producing high-quality and safe food remains a critical challenge. He emphasized that quality production is essential if Bangladesh aims to propel its economy forward through agricultural exports. ”Nearly 75 percent of the country’s population is directly or indirectly involved in agriculture. Empowering this demographic economically will permanently strengthen the national economy,” Minister said. He added that the twin objectives of agricultural growth are satisfying domestic demand and establishing a firm footprint in global markets. Addressing the research community, the minister advised a shift away from reliance on antibiotics and vaccines, urging scientists to focus on natural remedies. “People now demand safe, healthy, and quality food. No production method should be adopted that poses long-term health risks to consumers,” he noted. He reiterated his commitment to reducing the use of harmful pesticides that damage soil, water, air, and human health, adding that the government has already initiated steps to tackle soil and water pollution. Expressing concern over the alarming rise of heavy metals like lead and arsenic in soil and water-and recently detected in rice- the minister revealed that the government has launched research to trace the root sources, whether from soil, underground water, fertilizers, or pesticides. To mitigate falling groundwater tables, he emphasized utilizing surface river water for irrigation to reduce reliance on underground extraction. The minister also outlined the government’s plan to transform agriculture graduates into entrepreneurs rather than job seekers, promising full policy support. He further cited the potential of native breeds like the Black Bengal goat, highlighting its high productivity and disease resistance. Md. Delwar Hossain, Secretary of the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, and Dr. Md. Khaled Kanak, Director General of the Department of Fisheries, spoke as special guests. Janna Van Der Linden, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of the Netherlands in Bangladesh, was present. Khondaker Farhad Hossain, Chairman of Fishtech BD Limited, presided over the event. The ‘Aquaculture Knowledge Day 2026’ served as a platform for sharing insights on modern fisheries technologies, eco-friendly farming techniques, ecosystem preservation, safe food production, and public awareness. |
