State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salahuddin Tuku today said the livestock sector plays a vital role in strengthening the economy, achieving food self-sufficiency and boosting exports. "The government is giving the highest priority to the development of this sector," he said while speaking as the chief guest at a discussion marking World Veterinary Day 2026 at the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council auditorium in Dhaka. This year, the Saturday is being observed with the theme "Veterinarians: Guardians of Food and Health".
Tuku said food sec
urity has become one of the most important issues in the world and veterinary professionals play a crucial role in ensuring safe food for people. He said public awareness about food safety has increased over time, while veterinary education has also expanded significantly in the country. "Animals cannot express their problems. So treating them and keeping them healthy is a difficult and challenging task," he said. The state minister said animal husbandry and veterinary science are going through a complex and challenging situation, but effective solutions can be found through discussion and coordination. He said farmers involved in the fisheries and livestock sector would be brought under the farmer card scheme and receive benefits similar to those provided to farmers in other sectors. Tuku also urged all to play a responsible role from their respective positions for the country's development. Veterinary Association of Bangladesh President Professor Dr Md Mahbub Alam chaired the discussion.
Fisheries and Livestock Secretary Md Delwar Hossain attended the event as a special guest. Department of Livestock Services Director General Shahjaman Khan and Director Dr Md Boyzar Rahman also spoke at the programme. Veterinary Association of Bangladesh Senior Vice-President and Project Director Dr Md Abdur Rahim delivered the welcome speech.
Professor Dr M Ariful Islam of the Department of Medicine at Bangladesh Agricultural University presented the keynote paper, highlighting contemporary challenges and opportunities in the veterinary profession and its role in protecting public health. Senior officials of the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock and the Department of Livestock Services, along with veterinarians from across the country, attended the event. Before the discussion, the state minister joined a colourful rally and inauguration programme marking World Veterinary Day.
