THE FISHERIES OF BANGLADESH: A REVIEW OF RESOURCES AND DEVELOPMENT PERSPECTIVES

Dr. Md. Jahangir Alam

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THE FISHERIES OF BANGLADESH: A REVIEW OF RESOURCES AND DEVELOPMENT PERSPECTIVES

Dr. Md. Jahangir Alam

Deputy Regional Director, Bangladesh Open University, Regional Centre, Bogura.

Author e-mail – jahangirbou@gmail.com

A R T I C L E  I N F O

Article Type: Research

Received: 05, Oct. 2024.

Accepted: 18, Dec. 2024.

Published: 30, Jan. 2025.

 

 

 A B S T R A C T

The fisheries sector in Bangladesh is integral to the nation’s socio-economic development, significantly contributing to food security, employment, and export earnings. As a global leader in fish production, the country’s extensive rivers, floodplains, wetlands, and marine resources in the Bay of Bengal sustain diverse aquatic species and provide livelihoods for millions. This review examines the current status, challenges, and future development opportunities within the sector. Bangladesh’s fisheries are categorized into marine, inland, and aquaculture systems. Marine fisheries, benefiting from an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the Bay of Bengal, support species like hilsa, mackerels, and shrimp. Inland fisheries, driven by rivers and floodplains, maintain biodiversity and rural livelihoods. Aquaculture, the fastest-growing segment, now accounts for over half of the country’s fish production, aided by advancements in breeding and farming technologies. However, the sector faces significant challenges, including overfishing, resource depletion, pollution, habitat loss, and climate change. Socio-economic factors like poverty, limited access to modern technologies, and market inefficiencies further hinder sustainable growth. This review emphasizes the need for sustainable fisheries management through ecosystem-based approaches, aquaculture innovations, and community participation. Drawing on global best practices, it advocates capacity-building initiatives and integrating traditional knowledge with modern technologies. The paper concludes with recommendations to strengthen institutional frameworks, improve policy coherence, and prioritize research to address existing gaps. By adopting sustainable practices and innovative technologies, Bangladesh can unlock the full potential of its fisheries sector, ensuring resilience and long-term development.
Keywords:

Bangladesh fisheries, Aquaculture development, Sustainable fisheries management, Fisheries resources, Climate change impact, Socio-economic challenges, Fisheries innovation.

 

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