Dhaka:The Parliamentary Standing Committee on the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock has put forward recommendations to strengthen market-based monitoring to investigate allegations related to the unreasonable price hikes of fish, meat, milk, and eggs. This includes addressing excessive profits by middlemen and the creation of artificial shortages.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the recommendation was made during the second meeting of the committee of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad (JS) held at the JS Bhaban. The meeting was chaired by committee chairman Khairul Kabir Khokon and attended by State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salahuddin Tuku, along with other committee members. Fisheries and Livestock Minister Mohammad Aminur Rashid was present at the meeting by special invitation.
The committee stressed the importance of conducting market-based investigations and monitoring in coordination with the Ministry of Commerce, the Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection, and relevant agencies. They emphasized verifying allegations of irregularities in the supply chain and protecting consumer interests. The meeting highlighted the need to continue initiatives to increase fisheries and livestock production and ensure the supply of products at fair prices.
Additionally, discussions included establishing fish sanctuaries in water bodies and enhancing support for farmers at the upazila and district levels. The committee proposed formulating an integrated action plan to explore marine fisheries resources, increase fish harvesting, and expand exports to international markets, with plans to be presented at future meetings.
The meeting also focused on recruitment progress within the ministry's departments and agencies, emphasizing the completion of development projects within the stipulated timeframe and ensuring accountability among officials. Committee members Sheikh Md. Rezaul Islam, Professor Nazrul Islam, M. A. Hannan, Ali Azam Md. Abu Bakar, and Md. Amir Hamza were present, along with the secretary of the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, heads of departments, and other relevant senior officials.