Govt Moves to Boost Natural Production of Indigenous Fish: Fisheries Minister

The government has taken initiatives to increase the natural production of indigenous fish species and protect their breeding grounds across the country, Fisheries, Livestock and Agriculture Minister Mohammed Amin Ur Rashid said.

The minister made the remarks on Wednesday (October 28) while addressing a workshop titled Annual Research Progress Review (2025–26) and Planning Formulation (2026–27) as the chief guest at the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC) in the capital. The workshop was organized by the Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute (BFRI).

“Fish sanctuaries are being established in haors, baors, rivers and even in the sea,” he said.

Highlighting the traditional identity of Bangladesh as a fish-consuming nation, the minister said the country had achieved self-sufficiency in fish production through quality research and sustained efforts in the fisheries sector.

Significant progress had been made in farmed fish production, quality improvement and feed management, he said. However, natural fish breeding grounds were increasingly threatened by climate change and a lack of public awareness.

Following direct instructions from Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, the government is pursuing a substantial budgetary allocation and a long-term plan this year to address the challenges, the minister added.

Research on Endangered Native Fish to Be Prioritized
The minister called on fisheries researchers and scientists to intensify research into fish breeding, breed development and the recovery of endangered indigenous species.

He also emphasized the need to address the adverse effects of climate change, prevent fish diseases and ensure the production of quality fish fry.

Highlighting the potential of coastal and marine fisheries, he urged researchers and relevant authorities to explore these resources more effectively.

He stressed the importance of raising public awareness and enforcing existing laws to prevent the use of harmful fishing nets. Ensuring safe fish production by avoiding feed containing substances hazardous to human health should also receive priority, he said.

Water Quality Crucial to Fish Production
Speaking as the special guest, State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salauddin Tuku emphasized the need to maintain quality standards alongside increasing fish production.

He said the taste and quality of fish largely depended on water quality. Therefore, preventing pollution in rivers and other water bodies and ensuring a suitable environment for the natural growth of fish were essential.

The state minister also highlighted the importance of excavating rivers and canals to improve water flow and reduce waterlogging.

Calling for coordinated efforts among all stakeholders, he said collective initiatives were necessary to further strengthen and advance the country's fisheries sector.

Senior Officials Attend Workshop
The workshop was chaired by BFRI Director General Dr. Md. Latiful Islam.

Among those who addressed the event were Md. Delwar Hossain, secretary of the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock; Md. Mir Hossain, chairman of the Bangladesh Fisheries Development Corporation; Dr. Md. Shahzaman Khan, director general of the Department of Livestock Services; and Dr. Md. Abdus Salam, executive chairman of BARC.

BFRI Director Dr. Md. Amirul Islam delivered the welcome address.

University teachers, senior ministry officials, BFRI scientists, Department of Fisheries officials and representatives of fishing communities also attended the workshop.

FP/A