Dhaka: Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter today emphasized the necessity of creating a comprehensive plan to protect the indigenous cattle breeds of the country. She highlighted that national welfare should be prioritized over profit-driven interests. “Developing a comprehensive roadmap is crucial to safeguarding the country’s indigenous cattle breeds from disappearing,” she remarked while speaking as the chief guest at a seminar titled ‘Local Cattle Germplasm Improvement: Challenges and Way Forward’ held at Krishibid Institution Bangladesh, according to a ministry press release.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Farida pointed out that misconceptions about the disappearance of indigenous cattle breeds must be addressed. She criticized the introduction of foreign breeds like ‘Friesian’ and ‘Crossbreed’ as unsustainable solutions. The adviser stressed the need to prevent the decline of local breeds by implementing a strategic roadmap. She called for a project based on zonal distribution to preserve these breeds, and suggested providing incentives to farmers to encourage the raising of indigenous cattle.
Experts at the seminar underscored the importance of considering the genetic diversity of local cattle as a valuable genetic resource or gene bank, which is essential for developing future cattle populations. They advocated for an integrated breeding strategy to maintain productive cattle, particularly those that are heat-tolerant, disease-resistant, and capable of annual birthing.
The seminar was organized by the Artificial Insemination Division of the Department of Livestock. Key speakers included Department of Livestock Director General Dr Md Abu Sufian, Bangladesh Agricultural University Vice Chancellor Professor Dr AK Fazlul Haque Bhuiyan, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock Nilufa Akhter, and Director General of Bangladesh Livestock Research Institute Shakila Faruk. Dr Md Shafiqur Rahman, Deputy Director of the Department of Artificial Insemination, delivered the keynote presentation, while Director (Administration) of the Department of Livestock Dr Md Boyzar Rahman participated in the discussion.
The event began with a welcome address by the Director of the Department of Artificial Insemination.