Noakhali fish farmer transforms bicycle-based trade into award-winning seventeen-hatchery enterprise
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Abdul Aziz, a fish farmer from Char Majid village in the Charbata Union of Subarnachar, Noakhali, has emerged as a successful entrepreneur in the aquaculture sector, earning national recognition for his innovative farming techniques. Once a bicycle-bound peddler who sold fish fry from door to door, Aziz now operates a sprawling 15-acre facility housing 17 hatcheries, which contributes significantly to the local economy and provides employment for approximately 70 people.
Aziz’s journey began in 2012 on a small 20-decimal plot inherited from his family. Facing a shortage of capital, he secured a micro-loan of 20,000 BDT from the local non-governmental organization, Sagarika Samaj Unnayan Sangstha, which also provided him with essential training in fry production. Over the years, through persistent effort and subsequent agricultural loans from organizations like Sonali Bank, he expanded his operations by purchasing two acres of land and leasing an additional 13 acres.
Currently, the hatcheries produce between 10 million and 15 million fry annually. After accounting for operational costs, including land rent and staff salaries, Aziz reports an annual net profit of approximately 1 million BDT. With a seasonal investment of 20 to 22 million BDT, he expects total annual revenues to exceed 30 to 35 million BDT as operations continue to scale.
The success of the enterprise is partly attributed to the adoption of modern technology. With technical support from Sagarika Samaj Unnayan Sangstha, Aziz integrated aerator machines to maintain optimal oxygen levels in the water, significantly reducing mortality rates among the fry. His commitment to innovation and contribution to the sector earned him the National Fisheries Award in 2025, following previous accolades, including the Best Fish Farmer award at the Upazila level in 2022 and recognition from the Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation.
Beyond his personal success, Aziz has become a vital economic pillar for his community. His hatcheries provide permanent employment for 12 staff members with monthly salaries ranging from 9,000 to 18,000 BDT, while an additional 60 fish traders depend on his facility for their inventory. Local traders note that the availability of locally produced, high-quality fry has eliminated the risks and losses previously associated with transporting fish from distant districts like Mymensingh.
Despite his achievements, Aziz remains focused on future growth. He is actively encouraging local youth to engage in commercial aquaculture but has appealed to the government for assistance in addressing infrastructure challenges, particularly the acute water shortages during the dry season. Fisheries officials continue to monitor his farm, citing Aziz’s model as a blueprint for the development of the region’s aquaculture industry.
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