Khulna: Duck farming has brought financial self-reliance to 23-year-old Pallab Gain of Dacope upazila, inspiring other unemployed youths and rural women to take up small-scale farming as an income-generating venture. Pallab, of Bajua Charardhar village, became interested in duck farming from his childhood while watching his father Joydeb Gain run a poultry farm. After passing HSC, he decided to become self-employed instead of searching for a job.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Pallab and his father jointly run a farm with around 1,000 ducks and four improved-breed cows. Around 700 ducks lay eggs daily, which are sold in local markets at about Tk 15 each, although prices vary depending on market conditions. Pallab stated that the cost of raising a duck from purchasing a duckling to the egg-laying stage is around Tk 450. After meeting expenses for feed, care, and other costs, the farm earns around Tk 20,000 to Tk 30,000 a month.
Pallab expressed his motivation behind entering duck farming, noting that it requires less investment yet yields good returns. His father, Joydeb, who had previously operated a poultry farm, joined his son in expanding the venture into duck and dairy farming, leading to financial self-reliance through their joint efforts.
Local Union Parishad member Dinabandhu Mondal highlighted that Pallab's initiative has encouraged many young people in the area to consider duck and cattle farming. Upazila Livestock Officer Dr. Pradip Kumar Majumder emphasized the potential of duck and livestock farming in the coastal areas of Khulna and assured support from the livestock department for those interested in starting such ventures.
The sector is also attracting rural women. Pekin ducks, known for their rapid growth and high meat yield, are becoming popular among housewives in the area. Shahnaz Begum, a housewife from Bajua Charardhar village, shared her success in rearing Pekin ducks using scientific methods. Mohiuddin Kazi, another farmer from Pankhali village, manages his duck farm alongside household responsibilities and reports significant profits.
Livestock experts pointed out that Pekin ducks can weigh up to three kilograms within 45 to 50 days with proper feeding and care. Officials from the local Livestock Department noted the emergence of duck rearing as a promising economic activity in Dacope and other parts of Khulna, with around 220 small and large duck farms currently operating in Dacope. The department also provides support through a regional duck breeding farm to supply ducklings at a low cost.