Dhaka: Fisheries and Livestock Minister Mohammed Amin Ur Rashid today announced that planned fish farming in university lakes, including those at Jahangirnagar University (JU), could establish a new benchmark for freshwater aquaculture in Bangladesh. He spoke about the potential for these initiatives to create employment opportunities and generate significant annual revenue.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister made these remarks while addressing journalists after releasing fish fingerlings into the JU lakes this morning. This initiative is part of the Department of Fisheries’ revenue budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year. The minister highlighted the technical aspects of this effort, noting the release of 395 kg of fingerlings.
The minister explained that due to the unmanaged nature of these lakes and their connection to external water sources, larger fingerlings were released to increase survival rates amidst potential predatory fish. The government aims to ensure food security by making agriculture and fisheries the backbone of the national economy.
“Not a single inch of land or water body should be left uncultivated. We must rely on planned and technology-driven farming to ensure our economic sovereignty,” he emphasized. He also mentioned that with nearly 90 percent of the population tied to the agrarian economy, the government supports initiatives like ‘Krishak Cards’, ‘Family Cards’, and low-interest loans.
Regarding the upcoming Eid-ul-Adha, the minister assured the public of no shortage of sacrificial animals, highlighting Bangladesh’s self-sufficiency in meat production. He mentioned that measures are in place to prevent the illegal entry of cattle through borders.
The event was presided over by JU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Mohammad Kamrul Ahsan, with Secretary of the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock Md. Delwar Hossain and Director General of the Department of Fisheries Zia Haider Chowdhury attending as special guests. Faculty members, students, and senior officials were also present.
A total of 395 kilograms of fingerlings were released into the university lakes today, comprising 158 kg of Rui, 118.5 kg of Katla, 79 kg of Mrigel, and 39.5 kg of Kalibaus.