Kishoreganj: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman inaugurated National Fisheries Fortnight-2026 here on Sunday, emphasizing the need to bolster the fisheries sector to push forward the government’s vision of a self-reliant and welfare-oriented Bangladesh. The event, observed nationwide from August 16 to 30 under the theme ‘A self-sufficient country through silver fish, Bangladesh first,’ was held at the George Institution Mini Stadium in Achmita Union of Katiadi upazila.
According to United News of Bangladesh, upon his arrival at the stadium amid rainfall, the Prime Minister was welcomed by Fisheries, Livestock and Agriculture Minister Mohammed Aminur Rashid, State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salahuddin Tuku, and State Minister for Textiles and Jute Shariful Alam. During the inaugural ceremony, Tarique presented the National Fisheries Medal (Gold) to 14 individuals and organizations across 13 categories for their remarkable contributions to the fisheries sector. The honorees were recognized for their achievements in fisheries production, research, technological innovation, extension services, administrative efficiency, and entrepreneurship development.
Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister commenced his Kishoreganj visit by releasing fish fry into the Old Brahmaputra River at Mirzapur Chairman Bari Ghat in Pakundia around 11:30 am. He also distributed fish fry among local residents and exchanged greetings with them. The program was part of the activities marking National Fisheries Fortnight, aimed at boosting fish production while preserving the nation’s natural fisheries resources.
Addressing a public gathering, Tarique highlighted his government’s aspiration to establish Bangladesh as a welfare state and underscored the importance of developing the country’s productive sectors. He later toured the Katiadi Carp Hatchery Complex before participating in the inauguration and award ceremony at the Achmita George Institute field.
The National Fisheries Fortnight features a series of programs across districts and upazilas, including rallies, discussions, seminars, fish fairs, fish-fry release events, technology exhibitions, awareness campaigns, and acknowledgment of successful fish farmers. These activities aim to promote safe fish production, sustainable fisheries resource management, modern technology-based aquaculture, and awareness of fish’s nutritional value.
Fisheries, Livestock and Agriculture Minister Mohammed Aminur Rashid presided over the inaugural ceremony. Other attendees included State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salahuddin Tuku, State Minister for Local Government Shahe Alam, State Minister for Textiles and Jute Shariful Alam, Kishoreganj-2 MP Jalal Uddin, Fisheries and Livestock Secretary Delwar Hossain, and Department of Fisheries Director General Dr. Md Khaled Kanak.
Following the fisheries program, the Prime Minister is set to inaugurate a tree-planting initiative at Sholakia Eidgah and participate in a Family Card distribution program at the old Kishoreganj Stadium. During the event, honorariums will be provided to religious figures, including imams, muezzins, priests, monks, and pastors, as part of the government’s broader social-support initiatives. The Prime Minister is scheduled to return to Dhaka by road in the evening.