(BSS) -Promotion of livestock farming has been significantly contributing to food security, self-employment and poverty alleviation in Rajshahi region, including the vast Barind tract.

Focusing on enhancing the sector`s contribution, the Department of Livestock has undertaken various initiatives, including modernization of farming practices, promotion of high-yielding varieties, farmer training, and ensuring access to quality animal-source foods.

According to sources concerned, the department has modernized public goat farms by improving infrastructure and facilities, and is working to establish demonstration farms to train farmers and build skilled manpower.

Demonstration farms are being established while quality goats are being distributed among farmers from government-run farms. Initiatives also include training programs, awareness campaigns, and promotion of quality animal-source food to strengthen the sector further.

In recent times, household-based lamb and sheep rearing ventures have made significant progress, energizing the rural economy and empowering marginalized groups, particularly in the Barind area.

Lamb farming is gaining momentum in the region as a sustainable income source, both for commercial farmers and landless or marginal households.

Overcoming traditional barriers related to livestock management, infrastructure and knowledge, rural families are increasingly adopting modern practices in household-based sheep farming.

Sheuly Begum, 52, a resident of Godagari upazila, launched her sheep farming initiative with five sheep three years ago and now owns eight healthy sheep.

"I`m proud to be a part of this income-generating activity. This has been a turning point for my family. I`m hopeful of doing even better in the coming years," she told BSS.

Moni Begum, 43, of Paba upazila, started sheep rearing in April 2024 with five sheep and now has nine. Her success is credited to scientific care and community-level support.

In Bagmara upazila, a graduate couple - Sohel Rana and Rima Khatun - started goat farming at home after failing to secure government jobs. They now run a successful goat-fattening farm.

"This year, we bought 40 kids for about Taka 2 lakh. We sold 20 goats during the last sacrificial animal market for Taka 4.50 lakh and expect to earn more in the future," said Sohel.

In the district, the sheep development farm at Rajabarihat in Godagari upazila is playing a vital role in ensuring safe and adequate animal protein. The farm is mandated to improve animal productivity, ensure animal health services and value addition.

Saidur Rahman, 48, a retired army personnel from Champakuri area under Bagmara upazila, is now earning around Taka 1.20 lakh per month through duck farming.

He started with 35 chicks from the Santahar Duck Breeding Center four years ago and now owns around 1,000 ducks. "I bring one-day-old ducklings and rear them until they start laying eggs at four months. I get about 900 eggs daily and make a good profit," he said.

"The upazila livestock office supplies vaccines and necessary support," Saidur added.

Upazila Livestock Officer Dr Atibur Rahman praised Saidur`s efforts, saying, "Saidur is an intelligent and hardworking duck farmer. His initiative has opened a new horizon for duck rearing in the area."

Monwara Khatun, 43, from Pirijpur village under Godagari upazila, came out of poverty through duck rearing and a grocery shop. "Duck farming is simple, cost-effective and commercially viable," she said.

Mabiya Khatun, 45, of Halidagachhi village under Charghat upazila, shared her cattle fattening experience. She prepares straw and fodder herself and maintains proper hygiene for her bulls.

"We`re seeing a positive environment where villagers are keen on generating income through bull fattening," she said.

Her neighbour, Abdus Sattar, 53, also shared his success with four bulls. At least 43 other families in the locality have adopted cattle fattening as a commercial venture, shifting from traditional to modern practices to meet growing market demands.

Locals expressed hope that with sustained efforts and government support, livestock farming would continue to play a transformative role in rural development and poverty eradication.