State Minister for Water Resources Forhad Hossain Azad. File photo

DHAKA, AUG 16, 2026 (BSS) - State Minister for Water Resources Forhad Hossain Azad today said the government is committed to increasing fish production through modern technology-based aquaculture, conservation of indigenous fish species and proper management of water bodies.

"The fisheries sector plays an important role in ensuring food security as well as nutrition, employment and economic growth. The government is 
implementing long-term plans for the sustainable development of the sector," he said.

The state minister made the remarks as the chief guest at a discussion organised jointly by the Dakshgarh district administration and District 
Fisheries Office to mark National Fisheries Fortnight-2026 with the theme "Self-reliant in silver fish, Bangladesh first."

Earlier, different species of fish fry were released symbolically, followed by a colourful rally through the main streets of the district town. 

Fish farmers, entrepreneurs, students, government officials and people from different professions joined the rally.

The state minister stressed protecting rivers, canals and open water bodies, preventing illegal fish harvesting, and expanding safe and environment-
friendly fish farming through modern technology.

Speakers at the discussion stressed public awareness alongside government initiatives to ensure safe fish production, conserve aquatic biodiversity and 
ensure sustainable fisheries management.

District administration officials, fisheries officials, government representatives, public representatives, fish farmers, entrepreneurs and local dignitaries attended the programme.