Bandarban:Chittagong Hill Tracts CHT Affairs Minister Sa Ching Prue has highlighted the potential economic benefits of commercial coffee and cashew nut cultivation on uncultivated, hilly lands in the region. He believes this initiative could significantly enhance the livelihoods of local farmers.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Minister announced that the Agriculture Ministry and the CHT Affairs Ministry are collaborating to expand the cultivation of these crops in the hilly areas. His remarks were made during a cleanliness drive at the Chimbuk Range in Bandarban, following a visit to a local coffee-processing plant.
The Minister assured farmers of technical and policy support, emphasizing that comprehensive assistance is being offered, ranging from cultivation techniques to harvesting. This support is part of broader projects focused on the research, development, and expansion of coffee, cashew, and rambutan farming in the region.
Sa Ching Prue noted that farmers are being encouraged to establish commercial orchards on the uncultivated lands. He also addressed the challenge of water scarcity, stating that initiatives have been implemented to alleviate shortages in Mro villages, including the distribution of water tanks.
His family has taken steps to supply water to remote areas using tanker trucks, ensuring a consistent supply throughout the year. Efforts are also being made to conserve natural hill streams, which are crucial for irrigating agricultural lands and fruit orchards.
The visit also included attendance at the consecration ceremony of a 'Sima Vihara' at the Longbaitong Para Buddhist Monastery in Ruma upazila, where the Minister served as the chief guest. Officials and journalists were present during the visit.