Dhaka: Prime Minister's Adviser and Prime Minister's Office (PMO) Spokesperson Mahdi Amin announced today that the government is giving the highest priority to agri-based entrepreneurship, product diversification, and research and innovation. He emphasized the importance of creating an environment where students can progress according to their merit and interests, during an event titled "Agriculture is Culture, Agriculture is Prosperity" at Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University (SAU).
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Mahdi Amin assured that those wishing to dedicate themselves to research and innovation will receive the necessary infrastructure, materials, and financial support. He further stated that aspiring entrepreneurs in the agriculture sector or any other field can expect administrative and financial assistance from the government to ensure their success.
Mahdi Amin expressed optimism about the role of Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University's educators and students in supporting the government's goal to establish a self-reliant Bangladesh in food production under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's leadership. He highlighted that the current government has been in office for only five months, and these students will complete their academic journey during this government's tenure.
He detailed the government's efforts to improve the livelihoods of farmers by delivering loans through the Farmer Card on easy and affordable terms, and making essential agricultural inputs like irrigation, seeds, fertilizers, and farm machinery more accessible and cost-effective.
The PMO spokesperson stressed the necessity of building robust agricultural supply and value chains. He pointed out the significant price discrepancies between production areas and consumer markets, and the wastage due to inadequate storage. To address this issue, he advocated for strengthened local-level storage, processing, and marketing, alongside the establishment of agri-based entrepreneurs and modern agricultural markets.
Mahdi Amin emphasized value addition and diversification to minimize wastage, enhance the supply system, and develop export-oriented agri-based industries.