The establishment of a Fisheries and Livestock Bank is now in its final stages, according to Farida Akhter, Adviser to the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock. She made this announcement on March 1 while visiting the PGL dairy production activities in Mushuria, Delduar, Tangail.
Akhter stated that once approval is granted by the Ministry of Finance and the Bangladesh Bank, the bank’s operations will commence. She expressed optimism that the initiative would help stabilize fish prices, benefiting both producers and consumers.
Following her inspection, she inaugurated a low-cost food distribution program in front of the district office, aimed at providing essential commodities at subsidized prices during Ramadan.
She further emphasized that the low-income population will be the primary beneficiaries of this initiative. Efforts are underway to ensure that this program continues throughout the year, making essential food products more accessible and affordable. She also mentioned that similar initiatives have already been launched in several districts and upazilas across the country.
The introduction of the Fisheries and Livestock Bank is expected to bring financial support to fishermen, livestock farmers, and small-scale entrepreneurs, providing them with access to loans, modern equipment, and sustainable farming practices. This, in turn, could enhance production efficiency, ensure food security, and contribute to the overall economic growth of the sector.
The government’s continuous focus on financial inclusion in agriculture and fisheries aligns with its broader goal of supporting rural livelihoods, stabilizing market prices, and promoting sustainable farming. The upcoming launch of the bank will be a significant milestone in Bangladesh’s fisheries and livestock sector.
