Jashore: State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Aninda Islam Amit announced on Friday that the government will introduce crop insurance for farmers to help compensate losses caused by natural disasters. He made the announcement while inaugurating the government's Boro paddy procurement drive for the current season. The programme was jointly organised by the district administration and the Directorate General of Food at the government silo on the town's Rail Road.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the state minister addressed the event as the chief guest and highlighted that the crop insurance scheme aims to provide financial protection for farmers affected by floods, storms, droughts, and other natural calamities. This initiative is expected to reduce farmers' vulnerability and ensure greater security in agricultural production. Amit also mentioned that the government has started implementing its election pledges for farmers by introducing the Farmers' Card, which allows them to purchase agricultural inputs at subsidised prices and access low-interest agricultural loans when needed.
The state minister further stated that the government has waived agricultural loans of up to Tk 10,000 in line with its commitments to support the farmer community. Emphasizing the country's agricultural progress, he credited the foundation of Bangladesh's agricultural advancement to Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman, who initiated programmes such as canal excavation and the introduction of improved fertilisers, seeds, and agricultural machinery. Amit noted that the current government, led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, has revitalised those initiatives to sustain momentum in the agricultural sector.
Despite global challenges, Amit remarked that the government's efforts to ensure an uninterrupted supply of electricity, diesel, and fertiliser in line with farmers' needs have contributed to a bumper Boro harvest this season. He also warned officials against any irregularities in paddy procurement and stressed the importance of ensuring fair prices for farmers.
The state minister formally launched the Boro procurement drive by purchasing paddy directly from marginal farmers and later planted a tree on the venue premises. Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Ashek Hasan presided over the programme, which was attended by Superintendent of Police Syed Rafiqul Islam, District Controller of Food Safaur Rahman, Sadar Upazila Food Officer Md Mamunur Rahman, District Council Administrator Delwar Hossain Khokon, Sadar Upazila Nirbahi Officer Shahriar Haque, and district BNP President Advocate Syed Saberul Haque Sabu, among others.
Safaur Rahman stated that the procurement target for Jashore district this Boro season has been set at 15,166 tonnes, with the government fixing the procurement price of paddy at Tk 36 per kilogram. Farmers welcomed the government procurement initiative, stating that it will help them receive fair prices for their produce.