Dhaka: Fisheries, Livestock and Agriculture Minister Mohammed Aminur Rashid has announced that the government is making concerted efforts to systematically reduce agro-product imports by boosting domestic production and enhancing infrastructural capabilities. He emphasized the gradual approach to phasing out imports by increasing farm output, improving preservation facilities, and adopting modern technology.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the agriculture minister shared this information while addressing journalists at his ministry’s conference room. Rashid expressed satisfaction with the ministry’s progress during the first 180 days of the current government, particularly highlighting the absence of a fertilizer crisis. He noted that the country currently has a surplus of fertilizer compared to the previous year, dismissing any rumors of an artificial shortage as conspiracies.
In discussing the development of the agriculture sector, Rashid outlined the government’s plan to distribute Farmers Cards to between 3.50 lakh and 4 lakh farmers each month. This initiative builds on a pilot project that has already created a database of nearly 14 lakh farmers.
The minister also reported the planting of 24.18 lakh tree saplings over the past six months, nearing the target of 25 lakh. Additionally, canal excavation has reached 475.61 kilometers, close to the target of 478.09 kilometers.
Rashid highlighted improvements in onion production and preservation, which have prevented the need for onion imports. Enhanced preservation facilities now allow onions to be stored for up to six months, addressing previous issues of decomposition. Plans are underway to increase infrastructure to preserve at least 3 lakh tonnes of onions in the upcoming season.
The government aims to reduce reliance on imports for jute seed, onion seed, and ginger. Rashid also mentioned the introduction of a new paddy variety, ‘BRRI-118,’ set to be cultivated next year. This variety can be planted 10-15 days earlier than usual in the haor region, providing protection against flash floods.
To lower crop production costs, the government plans to transition irrigation pumps to solar power, addressing the challenge posed by diesel-driven pumps. Agriculture Secretary M Selim Khan was also present at the event.