Khulna: Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter emphasized the importance of conserving and increasing the production of freshwater prawn (Galda) and tiger shrimp (Bagda), which hold significant international recognition and appreciation. She made these remarks during a view exchange meeting with shrimp farmers after visiting a conserved shrimp farm at Gutudia Bardanga under Dumuria upazila.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Akhter highlighted the role of Galda and Bagda varieties in ensuring household nutrition, with both men and women actively participating in this form of farming. She noted that this cultivation contributes to household financial well-being and creates new employment opportunities. Farida Akhter expressed pride in the Galda variety, which is not farmed in many countries, and stated that Bangladesh should take pride in its cultivation. She also mentioned government support, including initiatives to resolve waterlogging through dredging and enhancing farmers’ capacity via various projects.
During the meeting, Akhter attentively listened to the issues and proposals from the shrimp farmers and directed relevant departments to provide the necessary support and coordination to address these concerns. The meeting was attended by representatives from the local administration, officials from the Department of Fisheries, the Department of Livestock Services, and individuals involved in shrimp farming.
Later, Adviser Akhter visited SS International Agro at Dhanibunia in Dumuria upazila, where she was briefed on various fisheries and livestock-based activities, production management, and the sector’s development potential. Additionally, she visited the Buffalo Breeding and Development Farm at Kabirhat in Bagerhat district to learn about the farm’s operations, breeding methods, feed management, and other development initiatives.
The visit was accompanied by Dr. Md. Golam Haider, Director of the Khulna Divisional Livestock office, and Md. Jahangir Alam, Director of the Khulna Divisional Fisheries department, along with other concerned officials.