A physically challenged farmer in Naogaon is earning Tk20,000–25,000 a month by farming black soldier fly larvae, an alternative protein source for fish feed that also helps recycle organic waste.
Nahid Hossain, from Lohachora village in Raninagar upazila, started the venture with support from the Mousumi Smart Project, which operates under the Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF).
He now produces 400–500kg of larvae a month, using some as feed for fish in his own pond and selling the surplus. His farm has also created employment for two people.
Nahid said he started the business on a small scale in October 2025 with a Tk1 lakh loan taken in his father's name through Mousumi, a local development organisation. In February 2026, he received a Tk50,000 grant from the Smart Pisciculture Sub-project, allowing him to expand production.
He said production costs around Tk65 per kg, while the larvae sell for Tk250–270 per kg. After meeting his own fish farm's feed requirements, he earns Tk20,000–25,000 a month from sales.
Black soldier fly larvae are raised on biodegradable waste from households, hotels and markets. The process involves breeding the flies, collecting their eggs and allowing the larvae to develop on organic waste. The larvae become suitable for use as fish feed within 15–16 days.
The method offers fish farmers an alternative source of protein, potentially reducing their dependence on conventional commercial feed. It also helps recycle organic waste and supports more sustainable waste management.
Abdur Rouf, MIS and documentation officer of the Mousumi Smart Pisciculture Sub-project, said Nahid's initiative demonstrated how environmentally friendly technology could reduce production costs and create income opportunities.
Despite his disability, Nahid had successfully adopted the technology and inspired others in the area to explore black soldier fly farming, he said, adding that the project continued to provide technical assistance.
Project Manager Firoz Hossain said black soldier fly larvae could serve as an alternative protein source in animal feed. The project is working to raise awareness among fish farmers and encourage wider adoption of the technology.
Palash Chandra Debnath, senior fisheries officer in Raninagar upazila, said black soldier fly farming was gaining popularity worldwide as an alternative protein source for aquaculture.
He said Nahid's initiative had helped improve fish growth while reducing feed costs and generating additional income.
Dried black soldier fly larvae can contain up to 50% protein, making them a potential source of protein for animal feed, the fisheries officer said.
Nahid's venture highlights the potential of insect farming to create rural employment, reduce aquaculture costs and turn organic waste into a valuable resource.and turn organic waste into a valuable resource.
