Rayhan Ahmed, Mymensingh: A colorful rally was held in Mymensingh on Monday to mark National Fisheries Fortnight 2026, with a call to increase fish production and strengthen the country’s fisheries sector.The rally was organized under the theme, “Increase fish production, build a happy and prosperous country.” It brought together lawmakers, senior government officials, fisheries department officials, employees and people from different walks of life.Mymensingh-4 lawmaker Abu Wab Akand, Mymensingh Development Authority Chairman Motahar Hossain Talukder, Mymensingh City Corporation Administrator Rokonuzzaman Rokon, Divisional Commissioner S M Humayun Kabir Sarker, Deputy Commissioner Saifur Rahman, and District Fisheries Officer Arafat Uddin Ahmed were among those who joined the rally.The participants marched through the city carrying banners and highlighting the importance of fisheries to Bangladesh’s food security, nutrition and economy.Later, a discussion meeting was held at the conference room of the Mymensingh District Council. Speakers at the meeting emphasized the need for sustainable fish farming, increased production and greater public awareness about the fisheries sector.At the end of the discussion, awards were distributed among selected fish farmers in recognition of their contribution and achievements in fish production.District Fisheries Officer Arafat Uddin Ahmed said that a range of programmes had been planned in Mymensingh from August 16 to 18 to observe National Fisheries Fortnight 2026.The fisheries sector plays a vital role in Bangladesh by contributing to food and nutrition security, employment and rural livelihoods. Officials and sector stakeholders believe that greater use of modern farming methods, responsible fisheries management and support for fish farmers can further increase production and strengthen the sector.The National Fisheries Fortnight programmes in Mymensingh are expected to raise awareness among farmers and the wider public about the importance of fish production and sustainable fisheries management.