State Minister for Local Government, Rural Development, and Cooperatives, Md. Abdul Wadud said that the government is augmenting its investment in the research sector of 'Fisheries and Aquaculture' recognizing its immense potential.
This commitment from the government underscores its dedication to advancing our nation towards becoming a developed and prosperous 'Smart Bangladesh' by 2041, as directed by Prime Minister
Sheikh Hasina.
Moreover, in the interest of the nation's greater welfare, concerted efforts must be made to attract increased allocations from abroad at both individual and institutional levels.
The state Minister came up with the statement at the opening session of the two-day-long 'International Fisheries and Aquaculture Conference-2024' organized by the 'Fisheries Faculty' and the 'Bangladesh Fisheries Research Forum' at the Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmed Senate Bhavan of Rajshahi University (RU) on June 8.
Highlighting 'Fisheries and Aquaculture' as a captivating field of research, he emphasized the benefits of cooperative farming in advancing research and development within this sector. He stressed the need to bolster the country's economy through scientific research projects while exercising caution to safeguard the environment, particularly avoiding damage to soil fertility during aquaculture.
The State Minister Wadud asserted, "The proverb 'Bengali on fish-rice ' is an integral part of our heritage. A Bengali meal without fish is unthinkable." He lauded Bangladesh's reputation for exporting a diverse array of fish species, including Hilsha, 'White Gold' Shrimp, and GI products, meeting the non-meat dietary preferences of its populace while generating significant remittances. Additionally, he proudly announced Bangladesh's leading position globally in Hilsa production, accounting for 86 percent of the total yield and its top-three status in freshwater and farmed fish production.
The theme of the conference was‘Smart Aquaculture and Fisheries for Safe Food Production’ was chaired by the convener of the conference preparation committee and Dean of the Faculty of Fisheries, Professor Dr. Md. Mostafizur Rahman Mondal.
