Farida Akhter, Adviser to the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, has announced that no hilsa fish will be exported to India for the upcoming Durga Puja. She stated, “To protect the interests of local farmers, the government has decided that no hilsa will be exported to India for this year’s Durga Puja.”
She made this announcement on Tuesday, September 3, during a meeting with members of the executive committee of the Fisheries and Livestock Journalists Forum (FLJF) at her office in the Secretariat.
Adviser Farida Akhter explained, “There are millions of farmers raising livestock in the country. Every year, 2 to 2.5 million animals remain unsold during the Eid al-Adha. Importing foreign meat could negatively impact our market and harm the farmers. We have made this decision to maintain market stability and protect the interests of our farmers.”
She further stated, “We do not wish to import any meat. Pressure is being applied to import frozen beef from countries like Brazil, but we have expressed objections. There are concerns about the nutritional quality of such meat and potential health risks due to inadequate processing.”
In addition, she mentioned that efforts are being made to reduce the cost of animal feed. “To lower the costs for farmers, we will take steps to reduce feed prices. We are also discussing providing subsidies for the agricultural sector in electricity bills.”
Addressing concerns about inadequate veterinary care and corruption in the livestock sector, Farida Akhter emphasized, “We will take strict measures against corruption. The government is committed to a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption, and severe actions will be taken against those involved.”
She concluded by urging journalists to highlight the issues facing the fisheries and livestock sectors. “By bringing these problems to the media’s attention, we can implement effective measures to resolve them and advance the sector.”
The meeting was attended by FLJF President MA Jalil Munna Raihan, General Secretary Zahidur Rahman, Joint General Secretary Asadur Rahman, Organizing Secretary Bayezid Munshi, Office Secretary Belal Hossain, and other members.
