Recognition of scientists’ innovations must be ensured: Agriculture Minister

Minister for Fisheries, Livestock and Agriculture Mohammed Amin Ur Rashid has said scientists play a vital role in advancing the country's livestock sector through research and innovation, and assured that their inventions and research achievements would receive proper recognition and evaluation.

"Scientists dedicate their intellect, time, effort, and devotion to developing new technologies and generating knowledge. If these contributions are not duly recognized, interest in research may decline in the future," he said.

The minister made the remarks on Tuesday (22 Septembeer) while presiding over the 49th meeting of the Board of Governors of the Bangladesh Livestock Research Institute (BLRI), held this morning at the conference room of the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock. He chaired the meeting as Chairman of the Board.

Highlighting the importance of research, the minister said there is no alternative to scientific research for increasing productivity, preventing diseases, developing improved breeds, ensuring the production of safe animal protein, and enhancing the export potential of the livestock sector. He emphasized the need to make research activities more effective and practical so that their benefits directly reach farmers and entrepreneurs. He also stressed the importance of rapidly disseminating newly developed technologies at the field level.

"The livestock sector has reached its current position largely due to the long-standing and tireless efforts of our researchers," he said, adding that the government would continue providing the necessary support to make research institutions more effective, modern, and responsive to emerging challenges.

The minister further underscored the need to expand incentives and recognition opportunities for scientists to encourage innovative and impactful research.

Among others, Member of Parliament for Patuakhali-4 A B M Mosharraf Hossain; Secretary of the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock and Vice Chairman of the Board Md. Delwar Hossain; Member (Secretary) of the Planning Commission Md. Mahmudul Hossain Khan; Vice-Chancellor of Bangladesh Agricultural University Professor Dr. Md. Rafiqul Islam Sarder; Executive Chairman of the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council Dr. Md. Abdus Salam; Director General of the Department of Livestock Services Md. Shahjaman Khan; BLRI Chief Scientific Officers Dr. Sadek Ahmed and Dr. Mohammed Abdus Samad; Board Member Dr. Md. Sofiul Ahad Sardar; and Board Member Secretary and Director General of BLRI Dr. Shakila Faruque attended the meeting.

The meeting reviewed various administrative, financial, and research-related matters of BLRI and provided necessary directives to further strengthen the institute and enhance the effectiveness of its activities.