Khulna: With the theme ‘building sanctuaries makes the country rich with local fish’, the inauguration ceremony of the National Fisheries Week was held in Khulna as elsewhere across the country. Additional Divisional Commissioner (General) Md Hossain Shawkat inaugurated the Fisheries Week by releasing fish fry into the pond at Shaheed Hadis Park.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, a colourful rally followed the inauguration, starting from Shaheed Hadis Park and parading through several streets before concluding at the Deputy Commissioner’s office. A discussion meeting was subsequently held at the Khulna Deputy Commissioner’s conference room, chaired by DC Md Saiful Islam.
Additional Divisional Commissioner (General) Md Hossain Shawkat addressed the rally as the chief guest, with Divisional Director of the Department of Fisheries, Md. Jahangir Alam, serving as the special guest. District Fisheries Officer, Md. Badruzzaman, delivered the welcome speech, with contributions from Khulna Press Club’s member secretary Rafiul Islam Tutul and shrimp farmer Md. Abu Hasan Sardar, among others.
The event was a joint effort by the Khulna District Administration and the Department of Fisheries. The chief guest highlighted the significance of fish in both physical and mental development, noting that increased fish production has boosted the income of fishermen and fish farmers. He emphasized the potential of unused lands in the southern region for aquaculture, which could enhance production and meet demand.
The chief guest also remarked on the fisheries sector’s contribution to national development and livelihood improvement. He stressed that planned fish farming could lead to higher production even in smaller areas. Government and non-government officials, fish farmers, fishermen, fish exporters, and representatives from business associations attended the event.
During the ceremony, the chief guest presented honorary crests to six successful fish farmers, individuals, entrepreneurs, and institutions, recognizing their contributions to the sector.