Fish farmers to come under Agriculture Card scheme: PM

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Sunday announced that fish farmers would soon be brought under the government’s Agriculture Card scheme, as part of broader efforts to strengthen the fisheries sector and expand support for those dependent on it. He made the announcement while inaugurating National Fisheries Week in Katiadi, Kishoreganj.

Speaking as the chief guest at the inauguration, held under the slogan “A self-reliant nation through fish, Bangladesh first,” the prime minister said Bangladesh had immense potential to expand freshwater fish production. Around 20 million people, including nearly 1.6 million women, currently depend directly or indirectly on the fisheries sector for their livelihoods. With systematic planning and appropriate measures, he said, the sector could generate substantially greater employment opportunities. Tarique also handed National Fisheries Awards to 14 individuals and organisations in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the sector.

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The prime minister said Bangladesh earns significant foreign exchange each year by exporting processed fish, including shrimp, to international markets. He also announced plans to progressively release fish fry into water bodies across the country to enhance national fish stocks. Meanwhile, he said the government was continuing the issuance of identification cards and registration of fishermen as part of efforts to strengthen their social protection.