Dhaka: Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter today announced that the government has enacted and amended several acts, ordinances, and regulations to protect the interests of marginal farmers, ensuring sustainable production, resource conservation, and public health safety.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Farida highlighted that the government has rapidly enacted and amended various policies to secure these objectives. Speaking at a press briefing in the ministry’s conference room, she noted the significant programmes and achievements accomplished during the interim government’s tenure.
In the fisheries sector, Farida explained that the government has declared fisheries sanctuaries by issuing the Protection and Conservation of Fish (Amendment) Ordinance, 2026. Legal recognition has been given to restrictions on electro-fishing and other effective area-based conservation measures (OECMs). The government has also established the National Fisheries Policy, 2026, National Fisheries Award (Padak) Policy, 2026, Fish Feed Rules, 2024, Fisheries Quarantine Rules, 2024, and Fish and Fish Products (Inspection and Quality Control) Rules, 2025.
The adviser further mentioned the reduction of the fishing ban in the Bay of Bengal from 65 days to 58 days and the two-year ban on using SONAR technology in fishing trawlers.
In the livestock sector, Farida disclosed that the government has created the National Poultry Development Policy, 2026, the Quarantine of Animal and Animal Products Ordinance, 2026, the Livestock Risk Protection Insurance Policy, 2026, and drafted the National Artificial Insemination (AI) Policy, 2026, and the Veterinary Medicines Ordinance, 2026.
She announced a strategic decision to offer a 20 percent rebate on electricity bills for growers and a subsidy of Taka 100 crore to lower production costs, aiming to stabilize the market prices of animal products.
Additionally, the adviser stated the government’s plan to increase the number of registered beneficiary fishermen under the Vulnerable Group Feeding (VGF) programme to 15 lakh, up from the current 13,26,486. This programme is newly introduced for fishermen residing in the Sundarbans and haor areas.
Farida concluded by revealing plans to sell dressed broiler chicken, milk, eggs, and beef at affordable prices in the capital during Ramadan. This mobile sales programme will be implemented in collaboration with local entrepreneurs and stakeholders.