Tanore: Farmers of the district are dreaming of becoming self-reliant by raising ducks as several farms have been set up near the embankment and bridge area of Beel Kumari in Tanore upazila of the district.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, local farmers want to achieve self-reliance by raising ducks at low cost, taking advantage of the beel's open water body and natural environment. These farms are constructed using bamboo poles, barbed-wire fencing, and polythene sheets. Ducks are released into the beel from morning until evening daily, allowing them to forage naturally and keeping feed costs low. The eggs produced at these farms are sold both in local markets and other areas.
On a visit to the site on Monday afternoon, hundreds of ducks were observed foraging in groups across Beel Kumari. Farmers were busy tending to the ducks and collecting eggs. This initiative has piqued the interest of many locals.
Farmers Mamun and Lutfar, who hail from Krishnapur in Tanore upazila, are collectively raising around 1,400 ducks of various sizes. They collect about 250 eggs on average each day, which are then sold in local markets and other regions. Farmer Mamun explained, "We release the ducks into the beel every morning. They grow by feeding naturally throughout the day, which keeps feed costs much lower. We're earning well from selling eggs. Even after paying two workers, we still make a profit."
Lutfar added, "If the government provides financial support, easy-term loans, and training, we could expand duck farming on a larger scale. That would also help meet the local demand for meat and eggs."
Locals noted that Beel Kumari, part of the Shib River along with surrounding waterlogged areas, is highly suitable for duck farming. Many are now turning to duck farms to capitalize on this opportunity, which is positively impacting the rural economy.
Observers suggest that utilizing Tanore's vast beels and water bodies in a planned way to expand duck farming will create jobs and play an important role in meeting the country's animal protein demand. Tanore Upazila Livestock Officer Dr. Wazed Ali mentioned, "We're in constant contact with the farmers. If any issues arise, the Livestock Department provides necessary medicines and all kinds of support. Because duck farming is profitable, many people are now showing interest in this sector."
He further stated, "Raising ducks in a natural environment is a profitable venture for farmers. If government support and training are increased, the duck industry in this region will grow even further."