Reforms happen, but farmers do not reap the benefits: Khasru
Policies exist in the agricultural sector, but there remains a lack of implementation to support farmers, BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury said today (29 November).
"Many reforms happen, but farmers do not reap the benefits. Farmers' crops often go to waste and need to be processed. Investment in agriculture is required, along with technological advancement," he said during a session at a city hotel.
At the session titled 'Fourth Bangladesh Economic Conference 2025: Future Economic Roadmap and Political Commitment' of an international conference organised by the Bangladesh Agricultural Journalists Forum (BAJF), Khasru stated that agriculture still provides the most employment in the country.
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"Within 18 months, the government has set a target of creating one crore jobs, with agriculture being one of the key sectors," he said.
Noting that this sector ensures the country's food security, he stressed the need for regional mapping in agriculture.
"It is necessary to map which crops will be produced in which regions. Potential must be identified, and infrastructure development carried out accordingly," he added.
Regarding reliance on food imports, he warned that if dependence is not reduced, Bangladesh could fall victim to global politics.
"Many countries suddenly halt the export of certain products or impose tariffs. Therefore, dependence on foreign food must be reduced."
Khasru said agriculture is undergoing significant change, and a revolution is possible in the sector.
To ensure maximum agricultural production, the government must work together with the private sector and NGOs, he noted.
"Much can be achieved on this land that we are currently unable to do. If all stakeholders form an alliance, a revolution in agriculture can be brought about."
He added that not just farmers, but rural blacksmiths and artisans also do not get fair prices.
"Integration is needed across all sectors, and agricultural products must be connected with global markets. Farmers should be supported differently, but setting prices for their products is a foolish decision," he further said.
