Dhaka: The country is all set to observe National Fisheries Week, 2025 from August 18 to 24 under the theme “Building Sanctuaries, Filling the Country with Local Fish,” aimed at raising awareness on the conservation, development, and sustainable use of Bangladesh’s fisheries resources. The weeklong observance will kick off with an official inauguration ceremony at 10 am at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center in the capital.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Chief Adviser to the Interim Government, Dr. Muhammad Yunus, will attend the event as the chief guest, while Farida Akhter, adviser to the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, will preside over it. To recognize significant contributions to the fisheries sector, 16 individuals and institutions will be awarded the “National Fisheries Medal, 2025” or “Jatiya Matshya Padak 2025,” with gold, silver, and bronze medals conferred for first, second, and third places respectively.
During the observance, special tribute will be paid to honor the martyrs and those injured in the July uprising through various programs. Several main central programs include the inauguration and medal presentation ceremony at 10 am at the Friendship Conference Center on August 18, a road rally at 8:30 am on Manik Mia Avenue, and technology demonstrations alongside discussions at various educational institutes in metropolitan areas of the capital at 10 am on August 19.
On August 20, a seminar on the importance of fisheries sanctuaries will be held at the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC) at 10 am. A documentary screening and discussion on fisheries will be arranged at Karwan Bazar Fish Market at 10 am on August 21. A discussion on enhancing fish exports will be organized at 10 am in Chattogram on August 22, while a meeting with stakeholders and a mobile awareness campaign will be held at Matsyabhaban in the capital on August 23. The closing ceremony, evaluation, and cultural program will take place at Krishibid Institution Bangladesh (KIB) at 4 pm on August 24.
District and upazila-level events will include rallies, fry release programs, recognition of successful entrepreneurs, seminars, safe fish farming campaigns, youth workshops, quiz and art competitions, and cultural events. The Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock has called for the cooperation of all relevant bodies, including local communities, entrepreneurs, and the general public, to ensure the success of the celebrations.
The fisheries week was originally scheduled to begin on July 22 but was postponed due to the tragic jet crash at Milestone School and College in the city’s Uttara area. During this time, the ministry has expressed deep condolences to the victims and their families.