Dhaka: Finance Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed has proposed an allocation of Taka 27,224 crore for the agriculture sector for the fiscal year 2025-26. The proposed amount marks an increase of Taka 2,528 crore compared to the revised budget for the 2024-25 fiscal year.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the finance adviser presented the proposal during a pre-recorded broadcast on Bangladesh Television (BTV) and Bangladesh Betar. In the initial budget for FY 2024-25, the allocation was Taka 27,214 crore, but it was later reduced to Taka 24,696 crore in the revised budget.
Dr. Ahmed emphasized the importance of food security for the densely populated country and highlighted various measures aimed at boosting agricultural production. These measures include the development of climate-resilient crop varieties, advancements in farming technology, affordable agricultural inputs, expanded irrigation areas, and enhanced marketing systems and agricultural mechanization.
He also noted that subsidies are being provided as needed, and exports of agricultural products are encouraged after fulfilling domestic demand. The ‘Agricultural Rehabilitation Assistance’ program has offered agricultural inputs and cash incentives in the current fiscal year, benefiting small and marginal farmers affected by floods.
The adviser stated that the government has expedited the payment of subsidies for both imported and domestically produced fertilizers to ensure an adequate supply of emergency agricultural inputs. These subsidies will continue into the next fiscal year.
Initiatives have been taken to rationalize the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides to protect biodiversity, maintain soil quality, and prevent environmental pollution. The government is involving farmer groups and NGOs in producing, marketing, and expanding the use of organic fertilizers.
Furthermore, environment-friendly technologies are being promoted to reduce water wastage during irrigation and enhance the use of surface and ground water. Dr. Ahmed outlined various initiatives to bolster the agricultural production system, including strengthening cold storage facilities, developing agricultural transportation systems, and creating a comprehensive database of stakeholders in the agriculture supply chain.