Agri Database Drive to Deter Crop Waste

The government is planning to develop an agricultural database to reduce wastage of produced crops. An indication to this effect emerged on Saturday, 28 March, at a meeting on action plans and budget estimates for implementing the government’s electoral commitments, held at the conference room of the Department of Agricultural Extension in Khamarbari in the capital.

The meeting discussed action plans and progress regarding the farmer card, canal excavation, tree plantation, and the Ministry of Agriculture’s 180-day programme.

Speaking as the chief guest, Agriculture, Fisheries and Livestock Minister Mohammad Aminur Rashid said that the government will identify genuine farmers and provide support through the introduction of the farmer card. The farmer card will play a significant role in facilitating agricultural loans, fertilizers, seeds, and technological support.

He further stated that the farmer card will usher in a revolutionary change in the agricultural sector. Through the use of this card, farmers will receive various government agricultural services. At the same time, agricultural production will come under a unified database, which will help reduce crop wastage.

The meeting, chaired by Agriculture Secretary Rafiqul E Mohammed, was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and its subordinate departments and agencies.

It is noted that data collection and bank account opening activities for the pre-piloting phase of the farmer card implementation will continue until 29 March. The Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is scheduled to inaugurate the ‘Farmer Card’ distribution programme on Pohela Boishakh.

DBTech/SMO/EK/OR