BAU Correspondent:
Aiming to ensure safe and antibiotic-free broiler production, Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU) and the Krishi Gobeshona Foundation (KGF) have extended technical support to small-scale poultry farmers, inaugurating the Manu Farms Bhabkhali Hub near BAU with participation of around 150 farmers. The inauguration ceremony was held on Wednesday (July 9) at 11 am in Bhabkhali, adjacent to the university.
The event was presided over by Muhammad Shahin, Founder and CEO of Manu Farms. KGF Executive Director Dr. Nathu Ram Sarker attended as the chief guest.
Other notable guests included Professor Dr. Muhammad Javidul Haque Bhuiyan, Associate Director of BAURES; Professor Dr. Md. Shawkat Ali, Head of the Department of Poultry Science at BAU; Project Director and Professor of Poultry Science Dr. Shubash Chandra Das; Mohammad Nazrul Islam, Branch Manager of Mutual Trust Bank; Md. Ismail Hossain, Principal Officer of Agriculture Finance at BRAC Bank PLC; Engr. Md. Shafiqul Islam Tuhin, Chairman of Info World Group; Colonel (Retd.) Hossain Mahmud Chowdhury, CEO of Info World Group; and Hasan Rahman, Managing Director and Founder of DMA Ltd.
Speaking at the event, KGF Executive Director Dr. Nathu Ram Sarker said, “The poultry industry plays a significant role in our national economy. Manu Farms’ initiative for safe and antibiotic-free broiler production is truly commendable. We must stand beside small-scale farmers so they can thrive while ensuring safe food for all. KGF will continue to support such initiatives.”
Manu Farms Founder Muhammad Shahin said, “We started our journey in 2011 to empower small-scale farmers. We have developed a device and mobile app to help farmers control temperature, humidity, lighting, and ammonia gas levels at poultry farms remotely via smartphone. Additionally, we have partnered with two banks to provide easy loan facilities, allowing farmers to buy chicks, feed, and medicines at fair prices.”
He further announced that the Bhabkhali Hub will provide free veterinary services for poultry and cattle three days a week from 4 pm to 6 pm. “All farm supplies will also be available here at wholesale prices. Our goal is to make farmers profitable and drive the country forward,” he added. Professor Dr. Md. Shawkat Ali emphasized the importance of safe food, saying, “Poultry is Bangladesh’s second-largest industry and the cheapest source of animal protein through eggs and broilers. However, we need a robust marketing system to prevent financial losses for small farmers. Effective farm management can minimize risks. With nearly 10 million people involved in the poultry sector, proper systems are crucial for its development.”
Professor Dr. Muhammad Javidul Haque Bhuiyan stressed the importance of food safety, stating, “Farmers must create a brand that ensures safe broilers and eggs. Residues from certain feeds and medicines can accumulate in poultry, posing serious health risks including cancer. Organic farming can greatly improve both product quality and market value.”
Project Director Professor Dr. Shubash Chandra Das remarked, “If your sole aim is only profit, then the purpose of today’s event will be lost. Your success is the project’s success. If you follow our guidelines, your costs will not increase.”
Notably, Manu Farms also offers a mobile application that allows farmers to manage daily operations, track financial records, and oversee livestock health with ease.
