Goats and goat-rearing equipment were distributed among 100 families. Photo: BSS

NAOGAON, March 14, 2026 (BSS) - Goats and goat-rearing equipment were distributed among 100 families belonging to backward small ethnic groups in Badalgachi upazila of the district today, aiming to improve their livelihoods and create opportunities for self-employment.

Under the government's integrated livestock development project titled "Socio-economic and quality of life development of backward small ethnic groups living in the plains," each beneficiary family received two goats and five floor mats for goat rearing.

The distribution programme was organized by the Badalgachi Upazila Livestock Department and Veterinary Hospital around 11:00 am.

Member of Parliament for Naogaon-3 (Mahadevpur-Badalgachi) constituency Fazle Huda Babul attended the event as the chief guest. 

District Livestock Officer Dr. Mahfuzar Rahman was present as the special guest, while Badalgachi Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Israt Jahan presided over the programme.

Speaking at the event, Fazle Huda Babul said the government is working continuously to improve the living standards of disadvantaged communities. He said that initiatives like goat distribution can help families from small ethnic groups become self-reliant.

"Goat rearing is an easy and profitable venture. With proper care, it can significantly increase household income and improve financial conditions," he added.

UNO Israt Jahan said the government is implementing various development programmes for small ethnic communities living in the plains. She expressed hope that the assistance would enable beneficiary families to increase their income and gradually achieve financial independence.

According to the Upazila Livestock Department, the project aims to increase income, ensure nutritional security and support sustainable livelihoods for small ethnic communities through livestock farming. In addition to distributing goats, the beneficiaries have also received necessary training and guidance on goat rearing.

Among others present at the event were Upazila Livestock Officer Dr. Ripa Rani, Upazila Agriculture Officer Krishibid Sabab Farhan, Upazila Project Implementation Officer Monirul Islam and Veterinary Surgeon of the Upazila Livestock Department Dr. Md. Asaduzzaman. 

Local public representatives, officials from various departments and beneficiary families also attended the programme.