Rangpur: Officials and experts in a discussion emphasized the need for research, development of agricultural technology, and public awareness to revive farmers in jute cultivation. The Rangpur district administration and the Jute Department jointly organized the discussion in observance of National Jute Day-2025 at the conference room of the Rangpur Deputy Commissioner in the city.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Rangpur, Md. Ramiz Alam, presided over the discussion. The event was addressed by Principal Scientific Officer of the Regional Jute Research Institute in Rangpur, Dr. Kazi Mosaddek Hossain, Additional Director of the Department of Agricultural Extension for Rangpur region, Md. Habibur Rahman, and Assistant Director of Jute Department Rangpur, Md. Solaiman Ali, among others.
In his speech, the Additional Deputy Commissioner highlighted that the soil of North Bengal is fertile and suitable for the cultivation of all crops, including jute. He noted the potential for cultivating multiple crops on the same land. He remarked that although Bangladesh was once renowned for jute production in the world market, jute cultivation has been declining due to environmental changes and water shortages.
He emphasized the detrimental effects of plastic usage, stating that plastic destroys soil fertility and negatively impacts the environment. He advocated for jute products and bags as environmentally friendly and recyclable alternatives to plastic.
Discussing farmer motivation for jute cultivation, he suggested that fair pricing and market expansion would rekindle farmer interest in jute cultivation. He stated that an increase in the use of jute products would boost employment and create new prospects in export earnings.
He urged jute farmers, traders, and stakeholders to take necessary steps to increase jute production and revive the past glory of the country's 'golden fibre.' Government officials, jute farmers, jute traders, and journalists were present at the discussion.