A fishing family in Jadu Ghar village along the Marine Drive in Cox’s Bazar is improving its livelihood by raising turkeys and ducks alongside fishing, creating an alternative source of income.
A visit to the village found dozens of turkeys and ducks roaming around the family’s homestead. Abdul Hossain and his wife, Nasima Begum, look after the birds through regular feeding, care and basic treatment. Sales of the birds now provide the family with additional income.
Abdul Hossain said fishing in the Bay of Bengal is not possible throughout the year. Adverse weather and seasonal fishing bans often make it difficult to support the family.
A few years ago, we started raising turkeys and ducks as alternative sources of income. Gradually, the farm has become a reliable means of earning, he said.
Nasima Begum said family members take care of the birds every day.
“Income from selling eggs and mature birds has significantly helped us meet our household expenses. We are now planning to expand the farm in the future,” she said.
Local residents said such alternative income-generating initiatives are encouraging other fishing families in the coastal area to diversify their livelihoods.
They believe that with proper training and government support, many more fishing households could achieve financial self-reliance through turkey and duck farming.
By Mohammad Morshed
Photo: Hussain Shetu
