The significance of safe food was emphasized today by Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter, who urged livestock sector officials to prioritize the production of safe protein through efficient farmer training in addition to food security.
According to a ministry press release, she made these comments while appearing as the main guest at the “Divisional Progress Review Workshop” hosted by the Department of Livestock Service’s Livestock and Dairy Development Project (LDDP) at a nearby hotel.
Highlighting the importance of disease prevention, the adviser said, “Expanding hospitals will be of little use if we fail to ensure food safety.” She opined that safe food not only addresses food-related issues but also plays a vital role in tackling health problems, particularly non-communicable diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.
On the issue of milk production, Farida Akhter said that Bangladesh still faces an overall deficit and relies on imports. She stressed that increasing milk production through the LDDP would help bridge the gap in protein and animal-based food supply. With necessary investments, milk imports could be minimized, contributing significantly to national food security, she added.
Referring to the potential of Barishal Division’s livestock sector, she said there are ample opportunities for cattle, goat, duck, and poultry farming, especially buffalo rearing.
She highlighted that buffalo rearing in Bhola district is making a notable contribution to the national economy and called for increased buffalo milk production and nurturing for export to international markets.
Mentioning that animal protein, especially milk and eggs, is essential for children, the adviser said that under the project, 200 millilitre of milk is being provided daily to school students, which is positively impacting their immunity and physical development.
In reference to production expenses, she stated that the ministry is attempting to guarantee that electrical bills in the livestock and fisheries industries are handled similarly to those in agriculture. She also proposed that production costs may be considerably decreased by expanding the use of grass as an alternative to grain feed.
Speaking to female farmers, Farida urged them to take advantage of the project chances and develop a greater interest in raising animals.
She advised young people to pursue entrepreneurship as an alternative to seeking employment. They can have a beneficial impact on the economy, she continued, just as the youth-led July Uprising changed the character of the country.
With Director General of the Department of Livestock Service Dr. Md. Abu Sufian in the chair, Special guests included Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Delwar Hossain, Director (Extension) Dr. Begum Shamsunnahar Ahmed, Director (Production) Dr. A.B.M. Khaleduzzaman, and Acting Director of the Divisional Livestock Office Dr. Md. Mostafizur Rahman also spoke.
Officials from the LDDP, district and upazila livestock offices, and members of the project’s Producer Groups (PGs) were present. Project Director Dr. Md. Jasim Uddin delivered the welcome address.
Chief Technical Coordinator Dr. Md. Golam Rabbani presented details on LDDP’s activities, achievements, challenges, and future plans in Barishal Division.
The workshop featured discussions on ongoing activities, field-level challenges, opportunities for dairy and livestock development, and future strategies. Participants emphasized the importance of increasing local production and ensuring sustainable development through coordinated efforts.
Following the workshop, the adviser visited the District Dairy Development and Support Centre, Demo Shed, Milk Value Addition Farm, and the Wet Market at Rahmatpur Bazar in Babuganj.
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