Agri-loans up to Tk 10,000 waived for small farmers; 20,000 km canals to be re-excavated
CIRDAP Connects 1.20 Lakh Stakeholders via Digital Network: LGRD Minister
Speaking at the 47th anniversary of CIRDAP, LGRD Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir stated that the organization has bridged policy-making and implementation by reaching 1.20 lakh stakeholders through its digital network. He highlighted government initiatives for rural development.
Prioritizing digital transformation, the Center on Integrated Rural Development for Asia and the Pacific (CIRDAP) has bridged the gap between policy-making and implementation by reaching 1.20 lakh stakeholders through its digital network and publications. Local Government, Rural Development, and Cooperatives (LGRD) Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir made the remarks today, Monday (July 6), while addressing a conference as the chief guest marking the 47th anniversary of CIRDAP and the 2nd International Rural Development Day at the CIRDAP auditorium in the capital.
The LGRD Minister noted that for nearly five decades, CIRDAP has played a pivotal role in regional solidarity, poverty alleviation, and capacity building of its member nations. The institution has implemented 215 research programs and 350 capacity-building initiatives, alongside providing training to over 8,000 government officials.
Mirza Fakhrul stated, "Presently, rural societies are confronting new challenges such as climate change, digital transformation, food security, and youth unemployment. To address these issues, CIRDAP is leading the way in climate-resilient agriculture and rural entrepreneurship." He added that the organization is expanding its regional footprint through initiatives to include 40 more Asia-Pacific countries as members and by partnering with the Pacific Islands Development Forum (PIDF).
The Minister highlighted that the current government, which took office in February 2026, has placed rural development at the core of its agenda. In alignment with the party's election manifesto, the government has launched multiple programs for the overall welfare of the rural population. As part of agricultural support, the government has completely waived agricultural loans up to Tk 10,000 for small farmers, benefiting more than 12 lakh farmers.
He further mentioned that by engaging various institutions including Ansar and VDP, villages will be transformed into hubs for administration, infrastructure, and public services. Additionally, a massive program to re-excavate 20,000 kilometers of canals across the country will be implemented over the next five years, which will help restore irrigation systems and boost agricultural productivity.
Detailing the government's social safety net, he added that the government is providing monthly financial assistance to low-income, female-headed households through the 'Family Card' program. Moreover, through the 'Farmer Card', farmers will gain easy access to subsidized agricultural inputs, credit, insurance, and market facilities. He emphasized that the government has prioritized the education and health sectors to enhance the capability of rural communities.
Mirza Fakhrul reaffirmed that the government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, remains determined to bring about a qualitative transformation in rural societies and the living standards of the people. In his speech, he commended CIRDAP for its 47 years of service and welcomed the international recognition of World Rural Development Day.
The conference was also attended by State Minister for LGRD Mir Shahe Alam and LGED Secretary Shahidul Hasan, among other senior officials from the ministry and the organization.
//DBTech/DHE/MI//
