Rajshahi: Advocate Shafiqul Haque Milon, MP, has called for turning the traditional Rajshahi Sugar Mill (RSM) into a profitable institution again through proper maintenance, modernization, and effective management. At the same time, he demanded permanent employment for seasonal workers and a quick solution to the financial and medical crisis of retired workers. He made these remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a sugarcane farmers’ rally and the inauguration ceremony of the 2026-27 planting season at the RSM Training Complex this morning.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the sugarcane planting season was inaugurated simultaneously at all sugar mills in the country under the Bangladesh Sugar and Food Industry Corporation (BSFIC) via Zoom. Lawmaker Shafiqul Haque Milon emphasized that the RSM is a government institution with the potential for significant profit if managed properly. However, due to lack of maintenance and supervision, this important institution faces the risk of degradation. The Sugar Mill holds a deep historical significance for Rajshahi, and preserving this heritage while making the mill profitable is crucial.
Milon further highlighted that seasonal workers struggle to secure permanent positions despite years of service. Many retired workers face extreme financial distress without receiving their provident fund money, outstanding dues, and medical benefits, which need urgent resolution. The event was presided over by BSFIC Chairman Shamsuzzaman Suruj, with speeches delivered by the organization’s Managing Director Masuma Akhter Jahan, Director (CDR) Abdul Alim, and Chief (CPE) Dr. Jebun Nahar.
During the rally, sugarcane farmers voiced their demands for improved sugarcane seed varieties, timely fertilizer supply, increased sugarcane prices, subsidies at the beginning of the season, and reduced interest rates on agricultural loans. They also suggested that alongside sugarcane, companion crops like radish and onion could be cultivated on the same land. Modernizing the sugar mill is expected to enhance sugar quality and production, benefiting farmers in the process.