Standard Chartered and SAF Bangladesh empowers 3,500 farmers in Rangpur

Standard Chartered Bangladesh, in collaboration with Sustainable Agriculture Foundation Bangladesh (SAF Bangladesh), has launched two Farming Smart Model Villages in Rangpur District, positively impacting over 3,500 villagers. This initiative aims to uplift underprivileged rural communities by promoting sustainable agriculture and creating opportunities for local growth and employment.

Key components of the initiative include the establishment of two Centres of Excellence (CoEs), which serve as hubs for agricultural training, innovation, and community services. The program also introduced Farmers' Hubs to improve market access, incorporate modern technologies, and provide advisory services to local farmers. State-of-the-art agricultural tools, such as hybrid solar irrigation systems, combine harvesters, tractors, natural storage facilities, soilless seedlings, vermicomposting, and safe food production methods, were deployed.

These interventions have created 62 new jobs and fostered the growth of 37 rural entrepreneurs. The program further prioritized capacity building through training and community sensitization, leading to the adoption of agricultural insurance by 300 farmers. By enhancing financial resilience and strengthening community collaborations, this initiative sets the stage for sustainable rural development and improved livelihoods.

Bitopi Das Chowdhury, Head of Corporate Affairs, Brand & Marketing at Standard Chartered Bangladesh, commented, "This initiative is a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to transform rural communities. By addressing all aspects of farming, we are providing a model for agricultural development that can be replicated and sustained by the villagers themselves. We are proud to partner with SAF Bangladesh in turning these villages into hubs of innovation and opportunity."

Md. Farhad Zamil, Executive Director of SAF Bangladesh, emphasized the power of collaboration, stating, "Our partnership with Standard Chartered demonstrates how collective action can drive meaningful rural transformation. By introducing smart farming practices and empowering entrepreneurs, we are paving the way for sustainable agricultural growth and resilience."