Rangmati, May 6, (V7N) — The government has begun bringing 27,000 registered fishermen of Kaptai Lake under the agricultural card scheme, opening access to loans, subsidies, and other financial incentives.

State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salahuddin Tuku, MP, made the announcement Wednesday while inaugurating a fish fry release program and food grain distribution through VGF cards in Rangamati.

He explained that fishing in Kaptai Lake is halted annually to allow natural reproduction and sustainable fish production. During this ban, the government provides food assistance to fishermen to ease financial hardship. Tuku urged fishermen to follow the law during the ban, noting that compliance will boost future yields, strengthen livelihoods, and contribute to the national economy.

The program was organized by the Bangladesh Fisheries Development Corporation, attended by ministry secretary Md. Delwar Hossain, Naval Police Additional DIG Nuruzzaman, BGB Rangamati Sector Commander Colonel Abu Mohammad Siddique Alam, Fisheries Research Institute DG Dr. Anuradha Bhadra, and senior officials.

Officials highlighted that Kaptai Lake, one of the country’s largest freshwater bodies, plays a vital role in domestic fish production. They believe inclusion in the agricultural card scheme will provide fishermen with easier access to bank loans, government subsidies, and financial security, making the fisheries sector more dynamic.

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