DHAKA, Aug 17, 2025 (BSS) - The country will observe National Fisheries Week,2025 from August 18(tomorrow) to 24 under the theme "Building Sanctuaries, Filling the Country with Local Fish" aimed at raising awareness on the conservation, development and sustainable use of Bangladesh's fisheries resources.

The weeklong observance will begin with an official inauguration ceremony at 10am tomorrow at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center in the capital. 

Chief Adviser to the Interim Government Dr Muhammad Yunus will attend the event as the chief guest while Farida Akhter, adviser to the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, will preside over it.

To recognize significant contributions to the fisheries sector, 16 individuals and institutions will be awarded the "National Fisheries Medal, 2025" or "Jatiya Matshya Padak 2025". 

Gold, silver, and bronze medals will be conferred for first, second and third place respectively.

During the fisheries week observance, special tribute will be paid to honor the martyrs and those injured in the July uprising through various programmes.

Several main central programmes include: inauguration and medal presentation ceremony at 10am at the Friendship Conference Center on August 18 and arranging road rally at 8:30 am on Manik Mia Avenue and holding technology demonstrations side by side holding discussions at various educational institutes at metropolitan areas in the capital at 10am on August 19.

On August 20, a seminar will be held at Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC) at 10am on the importance of fisheries sanctuaries.

Documentary screening and discussion will be arranged on fisheries at Karwan Bazar Fish Market at 10am on August 21.

Discussion on enhancing fish exports will be organised at 10am in Chattogram on August 22 while a meeting with stakeholders and mobile awareness campaign will be held at Matsyabhaban in the capital on August 23.

Closing ceremony, evaluation and cultural programme will be held at Krishibid Institution Bangladesh (KIB) at 4pm on August 24.

District and upazila-level events will include rallies, fry release programs, recognition of successful entrepreneurs, seminars, safe fish farming campaigns, youth workshops, quiz and art competitions and cultural events.

The Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock has called for the cooperation of all relevant bodies, including local communities, entrepreneurs and the general public to ensure the success of the celebrations.

The fisheries week was originally scheduled to begin on July 22 but was postponed due to the tragic jet crash at Milestone School and College in the city's Uttara area.
 
During the time, the ministry has expressed deep condolences to the victims and their families.