‘Research key to sustainable fisheries growth’

Fisheries and Livestock and Agriculture Minister Mohammed Aminur Rashid has underscored the need for high-quality, solution-oriented research in Bangladesh, urging scientists to focus on original and innovative studies capable of addressing real-world challenges and advancing national development.

Speaking as the chief guest at the inception workshop of the Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute (BFRI) project titled “Innovation of Vaccines to Prevent Freshwater Fish Disease”, held at the auditorium of the Soil Resource Development Institute (SRDI) on Wednesday, the minister said researchers must demonstrate that their work is distinct from existing global studies and capable of delivering practical solutions.

Highlighting the economic and developmental importance of the fisheries sector, Aminur said Bangladesh possesses immense potential in fisheries and that research and innovation remain indispensable for unlocking that potential. He added that the government intends to recognise and honour individuals and institutions making significant contributions through research.

“The government wants to give due status to eminent people, scientists and researchers,” he said, expressing expectations that researchers would play a leading role in developing new technologies and innovations.

The minister noted that although Bangladesh has numerous research institutions, a clearly identifiable national research trend has yet to emerge.

While research activities are ongoing, he said, their visible outcomes and a distinctive research culture need to be firmly established.

Referring to aquaculture challenges, Aminur described water quality as one of the most important determinants of fish production. He said ensuring suitable water conditions could significantly reduce fish diseases and called on scientists and fisheries officials to work jointly towards that goal.

The minister also voiced concern over the declining population of many indigenous fish species. He said biodiversity in natural water bodies is under threat from various environmental factors, including the excessive use of pesticides and chemical fertilisers in agriculture. To address the issue, he stressed the need for research, public awareness and effective conservation initiatives aimed at restoring native fish populations.

Speaking as a special guest, State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salauddin Tuku described the freshwater fish vaccine initiative as a timely effort to ensure disease-free and sustainable production of fish, a staple food for millions of people in the country.

He said effective research is essential to strengthen fish disease resistance and improve pest control measures.

Tuku also warned about the growing trend of irrational and uncontrolled antibiotic use in fish farming, calling it a serious threat to both public health and the environment. He expressed concern that some antibiotics intended for livestock are also being used in aquaculture.

The state minister urged the Department of Fisheries to strengthen monitoring and enforcement measures to curb the practice.

He further said all state institutions and responsible officials must carry out their duties with honesty, professionalism and dedication, noting that public institutions operate with taxpayers’ money and therefore have a responsibility to serve citizens effectively.

The workshop was chaired by Director General of the Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute Dr Anuradha Bhadra.

Among others, Fisheries and Livestock Secretary Md. Delwar Hossain, Director General of the Department of Fisheries Dr Md Khaled Kanak and Director General of the Department of Livestock Md Shahzaman Khan addressed the event.

Dr Md Sirajum Monir presented the project’s main paper at the workshop.
Senior ministry officials, university teachers, scientists, researchers from BFRI, fisheries specialists and other stakeholders also attended the programme.