Rajibpur (Kurigram) Correspondent:

In Rajibpur Upazila of Kurigram, improved breeds of chickens have been distributed among marginal and underprivileged farmers under the initiative of the Livestock Department and Veterinary Hospital.

The chicken distribution program was held on Tuesday (January 27) afternoon at the Rajibpur Upazila Veterinary Hospital.

These chickens were distributed among 199 beneficiaries in 86 areas of the border and riverine char areas of the northern region under the Integrated Livestock Development Project (ILDP).

Upazila Livestock Officer Dr. Biplob Kumar Sarkar was present as the chief guest at the chicken distribution program. Veterinary Surgeon Dr. Mahabur Alam, ILDP Project Extension Officer Dr. Md. Shamsur Rahman Suman, LFF Mukul Mia, LSP Mizanur Rahman and local dignitaries were also present at the time.

Upazila Livestock Officer Dr. Biplab Kumar Sarkar said at the event that chicken farming is an easy and profitable income-generating activity for the rural poor. Through this initiative, poverty alleviation, women empowerment, meeting nutritional needs through production and consumption of animal meat and reducing socio-economic inequality will be possible.

He also said that the more eggs people eat, the more talented the people of that country are. Therefore, he emphasized on everyone to eat more eggs.

He said that such activities are being implemented regularly as part of the government's livestock development program. He assured to stand by the farmers through training, vaccination and technical assistance in the future as well.

Veterinary Surgeon Dr. Mahabur Alam said that it is possible to protect chickens from most diseases if the BCRDV vaccine is given within 1 to 7 days of the birth of chickens. He also said that poultry is a direct source of cash income for the marginalized population, which acts as a 'living bank'.

The beneficiaries expressed their satisfaction after receiving the roosters and chickens, saying that this assistance has brought new hope to their lives and will play an important role in increasing the financial well-being of the family.