NEWSPAPER report said Bangladesh has become self-sufficient in production of meat and egg, the two best sources of good-quality protein and micronutrients. But the country lags behind in milk production compared with demand. Meat and egg production surged 496 percent and 198 percent respectively in a decade between fiscals 2009-10 and 2018-19, according to the Department of Livestock Services. The report also said meat production, led by chicken, is now higher than the demand. Egg production has risen to the same level as demand. Though the production of milk has increased 319 percent to nearly 100 lakh tonnes in almost 10 years, it is still lower than the present demand of over 152 lakh tonnes. Of course the development is a big success. Livestock -related persons said steady economic growth, increased purchasing capacity of people and some other related issues have helped the country become self-sufficient in livestock.
But we see a different scenario. What’s surprising is that – despite production boost most of the time meat and egg remain out of reach of the common people. A dozen of eggs (farm) was sold at Tk 120 just a couple of weeks ago. That means one egg was sold at Tk 10. If the price of egg remains within reach of common people — per piece Tk 6-7 — it would be more helpful for them. Besides, the prices of beef and mutton are also comparatively higher. Chicken though easier to get in the market, its price also fluctuates often.
There is another problem. Breeding and nourishing system of livestock by the local businessmen is often proved as not healthy for human consumption. Feeding substandard items including excessive antibiotic have already posed serious health risk. The authorities concerned must be cautious in this regard.
It is high time to pay attention in increasing milk production. At present, the country is lag behind in producing milk. On the other hand sub-standard and contaminated milks are being produced and marketed by a section of unscrupulous businessmen. We think, if the local produced pure milk could able to meet the demand, the dishonest traders would compel to stop their dirty business.
The government should come forward to support the real entrepreneurs with a view to making the country sufficient in livestock production, including milk.
But we see a different scenario. What’s surprising is that – despite production boost most of the time meat and egg remain out of reach of the common people. A dozen of eggs (farm) was sold at Tk 120 just a couple of weeks ago. That means one egg was sold at Tk 10. If the price of egg remains within reach of common people — per piece Tk 6-7 — it would be more helpful for them. Besides, the prices of beef and mutton are also comparatively higher. Chicken though easier to get in the market, its price also fluctuates often.
There is another problem. Breeding and nourishing system of livestock by the local businessmen is often proved as not healthy for human consumption. Feeding substandard items including excessive antibiotic have already posed serious health risk. The authorities concerned must be cautious in this regard.
It is high time to pay attention in increasing milk production. At present, the country is lag behind in producing milk. On the other hand sub-standard and contaminated milks are being produced and marketed by a section of unscrupulous businessmen. We think, if the local produced pure milk could able to meet the demand, the dishonest traders would compel to stop their dirty business.
The government should come forward to support the real entrepreneurs with a view to making the country sufficient in livestock production, including milk.
