Photo : BSS

RAJSHAHI, June 3, 2026 (BSS)- Farmers of the district are dreaming of becoming self-reliant by raising ducks as several farms have been set up near the embankment and bridge area of Beel Kumari in Tanore upazila of the district. 

Local farmers want to be self-reliant by raising ducks at low cost, taking advantage of the beel's open water body and natural environment. 
 
These farms are built with bamboo poles, barbed-wire fencing, and polythene sheets. Ducks are released into the bill from morning until evening every day. Because the ducks forage naturally, feed costs remain comparatively low. The eggs produced at these farms are sold in local markets as well as in other areas.
 
On a visit to the site on Monday afternoon, hundreds of ducks were seen foraging in groups across the Beel Kumari. Farmers were busy tending to the ducks and collecting eggs.
 
Locals have also shown strong interest in the initiative.
 
Farmers Mamun and Lutfar said they are from Krishnapur in Tanore upazila. Together, they are raising around 1,400 ducks of various sizes. 
They collect about 250 eggs on average each day. These eggs are sold in local markets and other areas.
 
Farmer Mamun said, "We release the ducks into the beel every morning. They grow by feeding naturally throughout the day. This keeps feed costs much lower. We're earning well from selling eggs. Even after paying two workers, we still make a profit." 
 
Another farmer Lutfar said, "If the government provides financial support, easy-term loans, and training, we could expand duck farming on a larger scale. That would also help meet the local demand for meat and eggs."
 
Locals said Beel Kumari, known as part of the Shib River, along with surrounding waterlogged areas, is highly suitable for duck farming. Many are now turning to duck farms to take advantage of this opportunity, which is also having a positive impact on the rural economy.
 
According to observers, if Tanore's vast beels and water bodies are utilized in a planned way to expand duck farming, it will create jobs and also play an important role in meeting the country's animal protein demand.
 
Tanore Upazila Livestock Officer Dr. Wazed Ali said, "We're in constant contact with the farmers. If any issues arise, the Livestock Department provides necessary medicines and all kinds of support. Because duck farming is profitable, many people are now showing interest in this sector."
 
"Raising ducks in a natural environment is a profitable venture for farmers. If government support and training are increased, the duck industry in this region will grow even further," he added.