Dhaka, Apr 16 (V7N) – Fisheries and Livestock Advisor Farida Akhtar has stressed the urgent need to protect the country’s native fish species, many of which are on the verge of extinction, while simultaneously increasing the production of farmed fish to meet the nation’s growing meat demand.

Speaking as the chief guest at a workshop organized by the Department of Fisheries in Farmgate, Dhaka, on Wednesday afternoon, Farida Akhtar said, “To meet the protein needs of all citizens, we must ensure the protection of all fish species—especially native varieties that are nearly extinct—while also increasing the production and supply of farmed fish in a proper and sustainable manner.”

Addressing fisheries and livestock officials, she pointed out that unplanned commercial fish farming is a growing concern and urged officials to educate and train fish farmers to adopt sustainable and scientifically sound practices.

“The sincere efforts of fisheries officials must continue so that fish farmers become more aware and skilled. Only then can we ensure long-term growth in fish production,” she said.

The Advisor also called on stakeholders to work together to develop and implement a national plan to boost aquaculture productivity while preserving the country’s aquatic biodiversity.

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