Rangpur: Sheep farming in Rangpur is witnessing significant growth, with 364 farms operating under eight upazilas, playing a crucial role in uplifting the poor and disadvantaged rural populace, particularly women, towards self-reliance and revitalizing the region's rural economy. The Department of Livestock highlights that sheep farming has emerged as a profitable enterprise across the district's rural areas.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, rural residents are increasingly adopting sheep farming to boost meat production, thereby meeting their protein needs and advancing economic self-sufficiency. "As a result, many successful men and women who lived under poverty in the past are improving their livelihood quality with their family members," stated Rangpur District Livestock Officer Dr. Md Abu Sayeed. Additionally, 364 private entrepreneurs are currently engaged in sheep farming, generating employment for 1,000 men and women in the district.
Dr. Sayeed noted that the total sheep population in Rangpur rose to 47,943 in 2024, up from 42,916 in 2019, with numbers increasing annually. Comprehensive support, including vaccinations, is being provided to bolster sheep farming. The Department of Livestock has implemented measures to popularize sheep rearing and meat, ensuring the efficient use of sheep hair for commercial goods such as carpets and blankets.
Housewives like Rashida Begum from Laxmipur village have transformed their lives through sheep farming. Rashida, who faced financial hardships with her day-labourer husband, purchased a sheep 17 years ago. Her flock has since grown to 45 sheep, enabling her to cover family expenses and improve their living standards. Similarly, Yunus Ali from Bamandighi village started with five sheep and now thrives with 100 sheep, attributing his success to the ease of sheep farming and community support.
Monira Begum from Char Gannarpar village also achieved economic self-reliance by nurturing sheep, leading to a better life for her family. Her initial investment in three sheep expanded to a flock that sustains her family's needs and enabled her to build a new home.
Dr. Sayeed encourages the consumption of sheep meat, noting its nutritional benefits, including high protein and energy content, while being low in harmful fats and cholesterol.