Livestock scientists’ research, innovations deserve due recognition: Agri Minister

Fisheries, Livestock and Agriculture Minister Mohammed Amin Ur Rashid today (22 September) said scientists play a vital role in advancing the country's livestock sector through research and innovation, stressing that their inventions and research achievements must receive proper recognition and evaluation.

The minister made the remarks while chairing the 49th meeting of the Board of Governors of the Bangladesh Livestock Research Institute (BLRI), held this morning at the conference room of the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, according to the press release.

"Scientists dedicate their intellect, time, effort and devotion to developing new technologies and generating knowledge. If these contributions are not duly recognised, interest in research may decline in the future," he said.

Highlighting the importance of research, Amin Ur Rashid said there is no alternative to scientific research for increasing productivity, preventing diseases, developing improved breeds, ensuring the production of safe animal protein and enhancing the export potential of the livestock sector.

He emphasised the need to make research activities more effective and practical so that their benefits directly reach farmers and entrepreneurs.

The minister also stressed the importance of rapidly disseminating newly developed technologies at the field level.

"The livestock sector has reached its current position largely due to the long-standing and tireless efforts of our researchers," he said.

He added that the government would continue providing the necessary support to make research institutions more effective, modern and responsive to emerging challenges.

The minister further underscored the need to expand incentives and recognition opportunities for scientists to encourage innovative and impactful research.

Patuakhali-4 Member of Parliament ABM Mosharraf Hossain; Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock Secretary and Vice-Chairman of the Board Md Delwar Hossain; Planning Commission Member (Secretary) Md Mahmudul Hossain Khan; Bangladesh Agricultural University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Md Rafiqul Islam Sarder; Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council Executive Chairman Dr Md Abdus Salam; Department of Livestock Services Director General Md Shahzaman Khan; BLRI Chief Scientific Officers Dr Sadek Ahmed and Dr Mohammed Abdus Samad; Board Member Dr Md Sofiul Ahad Sardar; and Board Member Secretary and BLRI Director General Dr Shakila Faruque attended the meeting.

The meeting reviewed various administrative, financial and research-related matters of BLRI and provided necessary directives to further strengthen the institute's activities and improve their effectiveness.