Goats have been distributed to beneficiary farmers on the river chars of Bhedarganj upazila in Shariatpur to improve their socio-economic condition and raise livestock production. Seventy-two farming families received two does each — 144 goats in all.

The distribution took place under the integrated livestock development project for the river chars of Manikganj, Dhaka, Munshiganj, Rajbari, Faridpur, Madaripur and Shariatpur districts. The event was organised by the Bhedarganj upazila livestock office and veterinary hospital, with Shariatpur District Livestock Officer Dr Md Abu Bakar Siddique as chief guest and upazila livestock officer Dr Imran Hossain in the chair.

Speakers said a large share of the char population depends on crops and livestock for a living, but these areas lack improved breeds, inputs, feed, veterinary treatment and technical support. An integrated livestock development effort can remove those constraints, raising income and employment on the chars and increasing the output of animal protein.

Guests expressed satisfaction that the goats handed over were disease-free, healthy and of the right weight, and the beneficiary farmers were pleased with them. The animals were supplied by M/s Tushar Enterprise. Beneficiary farmers, local public representatives and officials and staff of the Department of Livestock Services at various levels attended.

Those involved expect the goats to secure self-employment for char families and contribute to their living standards and to sustainable growth of the livestock sector. On flood- and erosion-prone chars, goat rearing needs little capital and pays back quickly; a pair of does producing several kids a year can be a family's most reliable cash income — provided vaccination and veterinary support stay within reach.

Source: banglanews24