Coordinated efforts must to tackle livestock sector challenges: CA

Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus has emphasized that the importance of the livestock sector in Bangladesh’s economy, highlighting its contribution from production to marketing as a key driver of growth.

Speaking via video at the inauguration of National Livestock Week 2025 at the Bangladesh-China Maitri Convention Centre in the capital's Agargaon on Wednesday (November 26), he said livestock contributes 2 percent to the country’s GDP and 6.5 percent within the agriculture sector.

He noted that the poultry sector alone directly and indirectly employs around six million people, many of whom are women. Yunus warned that disruption in the production chain could threaten both livelihoods and food security for marginal farmers.

The Chief Adviser also highlighted the sector’s role in rural employment, women’s empowerment, commercial farming, supporting industries, and foreign currency earnings. He stressed the need to address challenges such as climate change, antibiotic resistance, zoonotic diseases, emerging pathogens, and potential food shortages.

He praised government initiatives to strengthen field-level veterinary services, including sufficient domestic supply of sacrificial animals during Eid-ul-Azha without imports.

The inauguration was presided over by Fisheries and Livestock Ministry Adviser Farida Akhter, while Planning Adviser Wahiduddin Mahmud attended as chief guest. Secretary Abu Taher Mohammad Zaber delivered the welcome speech.

Alongside the event, a three-day national livestock exhibition is ongoing at the adjacent old trade fair ground, showcasing cattle, buffaloes, goats, sheep, horses, rabbits, poultry, and pets, as well as dairy and meat products, traditional recipes, and modern technology.

Livestock Department Director General Md. Abu Sufian said the week is being observed nationwide at central, district, and upazila levels, providing a first-time opportunity to display advanced breeds together.