Shailkupa: Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter today urged deputy commissioners (DCs) and UNOs to lease the beels and baors (wetlands) exclusively to genuine fishermen. Speaking at a rally organized by the Sammilito Khamari Parishad at the Haripur Government Primary School ground in Shailkupa Upazila, Farida emphasized the importance of ensuring that these vital water bodies are used by those who depend on them for their livelihood.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the adviser highlighted that three ministries are currently collaborating on lease management, expressing optimism that a resolution would soon be reached. Farida discouraged the cultivation of tobacco on these lands, advocating instead for the growth of other crops, including rice, which would be more beneficial for the farmers and the environment.
The adviser also addressed issues in the dairy sector, pointing out that while the country has an adequate milk supply, it lacks storage facilities. She announced plans to construct storage through the development of a cattle hub, which would enable consumers to purchase fresh milk directly from farmers. This initiative is part of the government’s broader effort to resolve farmers’ issues and foster a healthier and more equitable society.
The event featured a range of speakers, including Attorney General Md. Asaduzzaman, Pakistan High Commissioner to Bangladesh Syed Ahmed Maruf, and Jhenaidah Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Abdul Awal. Other notable figures such as Gabriel Pinedas, representative of US President Donald Trump’s business organization, and Dr. Aminul Haque, former Dean of Rajshahi University, were also present. They were joined by Dr. Md. Jasim Uddin, LDDP Project Director, Shailkupa UNO Snigdha Das, and Faridul Islam, President of the Teesta River Protection Committee, among others. Central Coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, Tarek Reza, also addressed the gathering, chaired by Tariqul Islam Turki.