Dhaka:Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Ministry of Agriculture, Md. Shahadat Hossain, announced on Monday that the fertiliser crisis in the country has been resolved, with sufficient stocks now available to meet demand. This development was discussed during the second meeting of the committee at the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Shahadat Hossain stated that the artificial crisis surrounding fertiliser distribution management was addressed through prompt and effective intervention. He expressed optimism that if fertiliser factories continue to operate at full capacity, the country might not only meet its domestic demand but also create opportunities to export surplus fertiliser in the future.
The meeting was attended by Agriculture Minister Mohammed Aminur Rashid, committee members Shohidul Islam, Mostafizur Rahman, Rokon Uddin Bablu, Mujibur Rahman Choudhury, Sabira Sultana, and Golam Rasul. Ministry officials presented a detailed update on the progress made in implementing the decisions from the committee's first meeting.
The committee recommended taking necessary actions regarding allegations of irregularities in fertiliser dealer appointments in various areas. It advised that dealership contracts where agreements have not been signed should be suspended until the allegations are resolved. For existing agreements, investigations should be conducted, and appropriate actions taken. The committee highlighted allegations in the districts of Lalmonirhat, Barguna, Satkhira, Faridpur, Naogaon, and Jashore as requiring serious attention.
Following a proposal by Mostafizur Rahman, the committee established a three-member body to inspect fertiliser distribution and management on-site. This body aims to identify any illegal stockpiling, marketing, or irregularities and to formulate recommendations for addressing these issues. Mostafizur Rahman was appointed as the convener, with Rokon Uddin Bablu and Sabira Sultana as members. The meeting was also attended by Agriculture Secretary Salim Khan and department heads under the ministry.