Rajshahi:Agriculture, Fisheries and Livestock Minister Mohammad Amin Ur Rashid announced that the government has initiated new plans to enhance agriculture and irrigation systems in the Barind region. The minister emphasized the importance of ensuring fair prices for farmers' produce to fortify the national economy.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister highlighted the need to strengthen agriculture as a means to build a robust national economy during his inspection of various development activities by the Barind Multipurpose Development Authority (BMDA) in Godagari Upazila of Rajshahi.
During his visit, Minister Rashid examined water lifting and supply activities at the Padma River in Hatpara, and later, the Sarmangla Canal, where he engaged with farmers and BMDA officials. He also participated in a tree plantation program along the canal bank.
The minister reviewed solar and electricity-powered irrigation pumps at Kalipur-3 in Godagari, where he was briefed about the net metering system that supplies surplus solar electricity to the national grid. Rashid praised the Barind region's people for their dedication to agriculture and stressed the government's commitment to ensuring fair prices for farmers.
Minister Rashid noted concerns over excessive groundwater extraction for irrigation, advocating for increased reliance on surface water. He mentioned Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's directive to install around 17,000 solar-powered deep tube wells under BMDA to boost renewable energy use in agriculture.
BMDA Executive Director Jahangir Alam Khan reported that BMDA has implemented significant irrigation and infrastructure projects in Godagari Upazila, benefiting 76,345 farmers. The Sarmangla Canal's expansion aims to irrigate 35,000 hectares of farmland, supported by solar irrigation projects like Kalipur-3.
The event was attended by BMDA officials, Senior Agricultural Extension Officers, Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation representatives, local farmers, and other stakeholders.