State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salahuddin Tuku addressed a seminar as the chief guest at the Momo Inn Convention Center in Bogra today. Photo: Ministry

BOGURA, May 17, 2026 (BSS) - State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salauddin Tuku today said law enforcement agencies, including Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and local administrations, have been directed to strengthen surveillance and take effective measures to prevent the illegal entry of cattle through border areas from neighbouring countries.

He made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a seminar titled "Sustainable Livestock Development: Modern Farm Management, Market Linkage and Value Chain" held at Momo Inn Convention Centre in Bogura this afternoon, organised by the Livestock and Dairy Development Project.

The state minister said the government is committed to protecting the interests of local farmers and ensuring sustainable development of the livestock sector. 

He added that Bangladesh has already achieved self-sufficiency in meeting the demand for sacrificial animals during Eid-ul-Azha due to increased domestic production.

"At present, the country has over 1.23 crore livestock animals, with a surplus of around 22 lakh compared to expected demand," he said, adding that there is no need to import cattle for Eid.

Tuku said growing production has created strong potential to develop the livestock sector into an export-oriented industry. 

He stressed the need for modern farm management, safe production, improved animal healthcare and stronger market linkages.

He also said the government is working to ensure fair prices for farmers while keeping sacrificial animals affordable for consumers. 

Various support measures, including subsidies, incentives and agricultural cards, are being implemented to reduce production costs.

Later, he inaugurated the newly constructed district slaughterhouse and livestock office building.

Director General of the Department of Livestock Services Md Shahjaman Khan chaired the seminar. 

Bogura-6 MP Md Rezaul Karim Badsha and Fisheries and Livestock Secretary Md Delwar Hossain attended as special guests.