Dhaka:Fisheries, Livestock and Agriculture Minister Mohammed Aminur Rashid has called for an increase in the national budget allocation for fisheries, alongside stricter transparency and accountability measures to prevent financial waste.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the minister emphasized the importance of preserving natural fish habitats, as native species are rapidly declining due to shrinking water bodies and environmental changes. He made these remarks at a workshop titled "Budget and Government Development Vision in the Fisheries Sector," organized by the Department of Fisheries at Matsya Bhaban.
Minister Rashid highlighted the cultural significance of fisheries in the identity of "Mache-Bhate Bangali" and stressed that merely launching projects and spending funds is insufficient. He advocated for field-level verification to ensure that fish sanctuaries are effectively facilitating breeding and reproduction. Regular reviews are necessary to assess expenditure, achievements, and impacts on fish production.
He also cautioned against inaccuracies in the fishermen's registry, which could exclude genuine beneficiaries from receiving government aid, urging local officials to exercise diligence during verification processes.
Addressing the potential of deep-sea resources, the minister noted that Bangladesh could emulate other countries in harvesting tuna commercially. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive plan to translate survey data into marine harvesting initiatives, along with developing skilled manpower, appropriate vessels, and technological capabilities.
State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salauddin Tuku, speaking as a special guest, urged for the encouragement of young entrepreneurs and provision of technical support to fish farmers. He instructed field officials to conduct regular farm inspections and monitor activities to boost freshwater fish production, expand exports, and utilize various water bodies for fish cultivation.
Pollution-free water bodies, river navigability, and the promotion of fish processing and exports are crucial for sustainable development in the sector, the state minister added. The workshop was chaired by Department of Fisheries Director General Khaled Kanak, with Ministry Secretary Delwar Hossain and Public Service Commission Member ASM Golam Hafiz also in attendance. Senior officials from the ministry and department were present at the event.