Cumilla: Fisheries and Livestock and Agriculture Minister Mohammed Aminur Rashid today stated that Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman was the only president who declared independence and actively participated in the Liberation War with arms in hand. According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Aminur Rashid emphasized the importance of Ziaur Rahman’s sense of responsibility, honesty, and simple lifestyle, urging BNP leaders and activists to draw inspiration from his ideals and work for the welfare of the country and its people.
The minister made these comments while addressing a discussion meeting organized by the Cumilla city unit of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) at the Cumilla Shilpakala Academy, marking the founding anniversary of the BNP. Highlighting the primacy of the people in a democratic state, Aminur noted that BNP formed the government through direct votes, emphasizing that no government can retain power indefinitely, as history has shown with many rulers and governments relinquishing power over time.
Aminur further elaborated on the importance of agriculture in the country’s economy, noting that around 75 percent of the population is involved in agriculture and farming. He stated that the government believes the economic development of farmers is crucial for the country’s overall economic development, echoing Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s belief in this approach. Aminur asserted that sustainable development is not possible without focusing on the agricultural sector and improving farmers’ living standards.
The minister reiterated that agricultural development is a key priority in BNP’s election pledges, and the government is implementing initiatives like waiving farmers’ loans and providing necessary assistance for farming. He remarked on the country’s reduced dependence on agricultural imports, such as onions, and expressed optimism about future exports of such products.
The discussion was presided over by Cumilla City BNP President and Cumilla Development Authority Chairman Udbatul Bari Abu, and moderated by Cumilla City BNP General Secretary Md Yousuf Mollah. Other notable speakers included BNP Cumilla Divisional Organizing Secretary Professor Md Salim Bhuiyan and Cumilla City BNP Organizing Secretary Raziur Rahman Rajib, among others.