Barishal: Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter today underscored the importance of safe food, urging officials in the livestock sector to focus not only on food security but also on the production of safe protein through effective farmer training. She made these remarks while speaking as the chief guest at the ‘Divisional Progress Review Workshop’ organized by the Livestock and Dairy Development Project (LDDP) under the Department of Livestock Service, in a local hotel here, said a ministry press release.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Farida Akhter highlighted the importance of disease prevention, stating that expanding hospitals will be of little use if food safety is not ensured. She pointed out that safe food not only addresses food-related issues but also plays a crucial role in tackling health problems, especially non-communicable diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.
On the topic of milk production, Akhter mentioned that Bangladesh continues to face an overall deficit and relies on imports. She emphasized that increasing milk production through the LDDP could help bridge the gap in protein and animal-based food supply. Necessary investments could minimize milk imports, significantly contributing to national food security, she added.
Referring to the potential of Barishal Division’s livestock sector, she stated that there are ample opportunities for cattle, goat, duck, and poultry farming, with a particular emphasis on buffalo rearing. She noted that buffalo rearing in Bhola district is significantly contributing to the national economy and called for increased buffalo milk production for export to international markets.
Akhter also highlighted that animal protein, especially milk and eggs, is essential for children. Under the project, 200 milliliters of milk are being provided daily to school students, positively impacting their immunity and physical development.
Regarding production costs, she mentioned that the ministry is working to ensure electricity bills in the fisheries and livestock sectors are treated akin to those in agriculture. She suggested that increasing grass cultivation as an alternative to grain feed could significantly reduce production costs.
Addressing women farmers, Farida encouraged them to become more interested in livestock rearing and utilize the project opportunities. She also urged the youth to aim for entrepreneurship instead of pursuing jobs, comparing their potential impact to the youth-led July Uprising that reshaped the nation’s character.
The event was chaired by the Director General of the Department of Livestock Service, Dr. Md. Abu Sufian. Special guests included Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Delwar Hossain, Director (Extension) Dr. Begum Shamsunnahar Ahmed, Director (Production) Dr. A.B.M. Khaleduzzaman, and Acting Director of the Divisional Livestock Office Dr. Md. Mostafizur Rahman. Officials from the LDDP, district and upazila livestock offices, and members of the project’s Producer Groups (PGs) were present. Project Director Dr. Md. Jasim Uddin delivered the welcome address.
Chief Technical Coordinator Dr. Md. Golam Rabbani presented details on LDDP’s activities, achievements, challenges, and future plans in Barishal Division. The workshop featured discussions on ongoing activities, field-level challenges, opportunities for dairy and livestock development, and future strategies. Participants emphasized the importance of increasing local production and ensuring sustainable development through coordinated efforts.
Following the workshop, the adviser visited the District Dairy Development and Support Centre, Demo Shed, Milk Value Addition Farm, and the Wet Market at Rahmatpur Bazar in Babuganj.