National Fisheries Week in Kaliganj Draws Criticism Over Lack of Farmers’ Participation

Questions have been raised over the way National Fisheries Week 2026 was observed in Kaliganj upazila of Lalmonirhat, with local fish farmers alleging that the programme lacked adequate publicity and participation from genuine fish farmers.

The event was organised jointly by the Kaliganj Upazila Administration and the Upazila Fisheries Office at the Upazila Parishad auditorium on Sunday (August 16).

Although officials and a small number of local fish farmers attended, local residents and fish farmers alleged that many genuine fish farmers and fishers were not invited. They also questioned whether the awards and other assistance distributed during the programme reached those who are actively involved in fish farming.

Local fish farmer Humayun Kabir Babu criticised the programme in a Facebook post, questioning how many genuine fish farmers were involved and what forms of support or awards were provided to them.

He specifically highlighted Kakina Union, saying its fish farmers and fishers make a significant contribution to fish production in Lalmonirhat. He also claimed that Kakina has two major fish-fry markets and called for greater recognition of local fish farmers.

In another Facebook exchange, Babu questioned how many genuine fish farmers participated in the programme and sought details about the recipients of awards and equipment.

The allegations could not independently be verified.

Local residents said National Fisheries Week can play an important role in raising awareness about fish conservation, preventing illegal fishing practices, protecting native fish breeding grounds and preserving aquatic biodiversity.

However, they alleged that publicity surrounding this year's programme was limited, particularly in mainstream newspapers and other media. They said much of the promotion appeared to have been limited to social-media posts from officials and employees.

They argued that broader publicity and greater participation from fish farmers would help the programme reach the wider community and better serve its objectives.

Kaliganj Upazila Nirbahi Officer Saiful Islam said the programme was jointly organised and referred questions about the specific arrangements to the fisheries officer.

When contacted about the allegations concerning invitations to genuine fish farmers and the distribution of awards, Upazila Fisheries Officer Abdul Ahad Lazu said he was new to the post and suggested discussing the matter at his office. The conversation ended shortly afterward.

The programme was attended by Lalmonirhat-2 MP Rokon Uddin Babul, Upazila Nirbahi Officer Saiful Islam, Upazila Fisheries Officer Abdul Ahad Lazu, officials from various government departments and a small number of fish farmers.

Local civil society members have called for greater transparency, wider publicity and meaningful participation of genuine fish farmers in future Fisheries Week programmes.