Soil fertility must be restored: Agri minister

Agriculture, Fisheries and Livestock Minister Md Amin-ur Rashid today (10 June) warned that excessive use of chemical fertilisers has increased soil acidity and reduced soil fertility, stressing that restoring the health of the country's soils has become a national priority.

"If we can improve soil fertility, Bangladesh's agriculture will advance significantly. Scientists must lead this effort. When agriculture prospers, the economy of 75% of our people will also prosper," he said while addressing the annual technical workshop of the Soil Resource Development Institute (SRDI) at the institute's auditorium in the capital's Farmgate area.

The minister added that improving soil pH levels is essential for ensuring long-term agricultural productivity and national prosperity.

Highlighting country's agricultural potential, he noted that, unlike many developed countries that remain snow-covered for much of the year, Bangladesh can cultivate crops throughout all twelve months.

"We must make the most of this opportunity," he said.

Calling on researchers to deliver practical solutions, he said soil must be "rejuvenated" through scientific interventions aimed at improving pH levels and restoring fertility.

"I want to see tangible research outcomes within the next two years," he said, adding that researchers had already been instructed to conduct field studies in two locations this year.

He suggested testing plots where soil pH levels have fallen to around 4.5, expressing optimism that the research would yield positive results.

The minister also blamed excessive pesticide use for worsening soil degradation. "Environmental damage, declining crop health, deteriorating soil quality and adverse impacts on human health are all linked to the current pattern of pesticide use."

While acknowledging that pesticides are widely used around the world, he stressed the need for stricter oversight in Bangladesh.

"Pesticides are used globally, but we need much stronger regulation and monitoring of their quality and application," he said.