DCs key to agriculture, fisheries growth: Minister

Fisheries, Livestock and Agriculture Minister Mohammed Aminur Rashid has said deputy commissioners have an important role in developing the agriculture and fisheries sectors as they are directly connected with field administration.

He urged the deputy commissioners to work in a coordinated manner for the development of these sectors.

The minister made the remarks while addressing a session involving the fisheries and livestock, agriculture, and food ministries at the Deputy Commissioners Conference 2026, held at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in Dhaka today (4 May).

He said the government is giving top priority to agriculture and, in line with its election pledge, has launched farmer cards, family cards, loan facilities, incentives, and free fertiliser, seed and pesticide distribution programmes to support farmers.

Around 75% to 90% of the country's people are directly or indirectly involved in agriculture, he said, adding that a stronger farmers' economy would strengthen the overall economy.

Stressing the need to increase domestic fish production, the minister said many local fish species are on the verge of extinction due to the destruction of natural habitats.

To address the situation, the government has taken an initiative to establish village-based fish sanctuaries so that fish production can increase naturally and people can access fish more easily.

Expressing concern over the misuse of pesticides, he said uncontrolled use is damaging soil fertility and the environment. The government is placing emphasis on modern and environment-friendly pesticides and taking steps to strengthen monitoring, he added.

The minister said the government is also working to expand alternative agricultural initiatives, including pearl farming, and bring them under the broader agricultural framework.

He also emphasised increasing domestic capacity in shrimp fry production, while saying necessary precautions would be taken if imports are required, considering the risk of bacterial infection.

Speaking as a special guest, State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salauddin Tuku said deputy commissioners play a vital role in the country's overall development and administrative activities.

He said deputy commissioners, as the main driving force of field administration, play an important role in running state affairs.

The state minister said the government is implementing various programmes to develop the fisheries and livestock sectors.

Highlighting initiatives to support fishermen, he said food assistance was recently provided to around 40,000 fishing families for two months, involving around Tk24 crore, in addition to the VGF programme.

He said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is working to move the country forward on the basis of a permanent democratic framework and urged all concerned to fulfil their responsibilities with dedication and honesty.

State Minister for Public Administration and Food Md Abdul Bari, Agriculture Secretary Dr Rafiqul E Mohamed, Fisheries and Livestock Secretary Md Delwar Hossain, Food Secretary Abu Taher Md Masud Rana and other officials were present.