Dhaka:State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salahuddin Tuku emphasized the need for enhanced research and innovation to achieve self-sufficiency in livestock vaccine production. Presently, 85 percent of the country's vaccines are imported.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Tuku highlighted that the country currently produces only 15 percent of the vaccines required for the livestock sector. He made these remarks as the chief guest at the annual research workshop-2026, held at the Bangladesh Livestock Research Institute (BLRI)’s conference room.
The minister stressed the importance of improving local capacity through combined efforts, research, and innovation under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. The government's goals include increasing local production capacity, reducing import dependency, and enhancing food security. Tuku praised the BLRI's scientists for their contributions, noting their role in introducing new technology to the livestock sector, which positively impacts the national economy.
He also spoke on the essential role of safe food production in ensuring food security, noting the global rise of the 'one health concept,' which integrates the health of humans, animals, plants, and ecosystems. The minister urged stakeholders to ensure that livestock-derived commodities are safe and hygienic.
Tuku warned against the overuse of antibiotics in the livestock sector, citing its contribution to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and public health vulnerabilities. He called for increased training and awareness programs to discourage small-scale farmers from indiscriminate antibiotic use.
Praising BLRI's efforts, Tuku noted the recent handover of two vaccines to the Department of Livestock Services (DLS) and expressed optimism for continued innovation and technology transfers.
He also addressed journalists regarding garment workers' return to work following the establishment of a wage board, noting that certain groups are attempting to disrupt stability. The government has taken action against such elements, with law enforcement agencies identifying and acting against those responsible.
The program, chaired by BLRI director general Dr. Shakila Faruque, also featured parliament member of Dhaka-1 constituency Khondoker Abu Ashfaque, Dhaka deputy commissioner M Yasin Ferdous Murad, and DLS director general M Shahzaman Khan as special guests.