State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salauddin Tuku on Monday said the government will take necessary steps to expand milk production in Bangladesh, aiming to reduce import dependency and eventually achieve the capacity to export dairy products.

Speaking at a discussion organised at the Krishibid Institution Bangladesh (KIB) on the occasion of World Milk Day 2026, he said employment opportunities for women in dairy farms will be ensured to boost milk production.

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The theme of this year's World Milk Day is "Women Dairy Farmers: Driving Development Forward."

“Increased participation of women entrepreneurs will accelerate the country's economic development. When women are empowered, the nation becomes economically stronger. Women's active involvement in dairy farming and other sectors is highly encouraging for today's society,” the state minister said.

Noting that women's contribution to the dairy sector is not only commendable but also requires further training and support, he said, “Government assistance to farmers will be increased as needed. When an entrepreneur succeeds, the national economy benefits too.”

Salauddin expressed hope that if everyone fulfils their responsibilities properly, it will be possible to advance the country further and build a prosperous Bangladesh.

Earlier, the state minister distributed milk among orphan students of a madrasah on the premises of the Department of Livestock Services (DLS). A colourful rally was also held, beginning from the DLS premises and ending at the KIB grounds via Khamarbari intersection.

The Veterinary Doctors' Association of Bangladesh (VAB) also organised a milk distribution programme for the poor and underprivileged in front of the Livestock Building, where VAB acting President Dr Abdur Rahim and Secretary General Dr Kabir Uddin Ahmed were present.