Netrakona:The International Day of Rural Women 2026 was marked in Netrakona with a ceremony honoring 25 women for their exceptional contributions to sustainable agriculture, biodiversity conservation, climate adaptation, and social development.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the event was themed "Narir Gyan, Jotne Bachao Poribesher Pran" (Save the environment with women's knowledge and care) and organized by BARCIK, a non-governmental research organization, alongside the Netrakona District Green Coalition Committee. The day-long program was held at the Masud Mia Agroecology Learning Centre in Kutubpur village, Kailati Union of Netrakona Sadar Upazila.
The discussion meeting was chaired by journalist Alpana Begum, president of the District Green Coalition Committee. Netrakona Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate Khondoker Moshfique Rahman attended as the chief guest, while BARCIK Regional Head Ohidur Rahman and Atpara Upazila Green Coalition Co-Assistant Secretary Faujia Nasrin moderated the event.
Various speakers, including District Mahila Parishad General Secretary Fahmina Sultana, Deputy Director of the District Youth Development Directorate Parjana Parvin, Kailati Union Parishad Chairman Najmul Huq, and environmental activist Sohrab Uddin Akanda, addressed the attendees. The deputy commissioner highlighted the crucial role rural women play in agriculture and environmental conservation, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging their knowledge and ensuring they have decision-making and leadership opportunities, especially in the face of climate change.
During the event, the 25 women were awarded the 'Rural Women Honour 2026' for their notable achievements. Additionally, a fair was held featuring rural products such as local seed varieties, uncultivated vegetables, eco-friendly technologies, handicrafts, organic biopesticides, and indigenous fruits, all displayed by women farmers. The program concluded with a cultural performance.