Dhaka: Agriculture Minister Mohammed Aminur Rashid has assured the nation that there is no fertiliser crisis, announcing that nearly 13 lakh tonnes of fertiliser are currently in stock. This figure represents an increase from the 12 lakh tonnes available during the same period last year, the minister stated while addressing Parliament.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the minister's declaration came in response to a notice highlighting urgent public concerns raised by National Citizen Party lawmaker Akhter Hossen under Rule 71 of the House. Hossen had drawn attention to alleged syndication, mismanagement, and irregularities in fertiliser distribution, which he claimed had led to an artificial crisis despite the government's assurances of adequate stocks.
Minister Aminur Rashid confidently dismissed these allegations, emphasizing, "What I am saying is the truth, the truth and the truth." He detailed the government's proactive steps, including the formulation of the Integrated Policy on Fertiliser Dealer Appointment and Fertiliser Distribution, 2026, to enhance the distribution system's efficiency and farmer-friendliness.
This new policy stipulates the appointment of three dealers per union or municipality, up from the current two master dealers, with additional ward-based dealers in larger unions. The minister also noted that applications for appointing one additional dealer in each union have been extended to September 10, with submissions to be processed through upazila and district administrations.
Deputy Speaker Barrister Kayser Kamal supported these measures, citing ongoing issues with outdated dealership records and the need for a systematic overhaul. He encouraged lawmakers to maintain vigilance over distribution practices within their constituencies to curb any potential mismanagement.
Minister Rashid concluded by urging all lawmakers to remain alert and monitor fertiliser distribution, expressing confidence that such oversight would deter malpractice and ensure fair distribution to farmers across the country.