World Bank team meets agriculture minister
Agriculture and Fisheries and Livestock Minister Mohammad Amin Ur Rashid received a World Bank delegation, led by Jean Pesme, Division Director for Bangladesh and Bhutan, at the Ministry of Agriculture today.
The minister welcomed the World Bank delegation, whose members congratulated him on his appointment to the cabinet.
The minister announced the phased rollout of a new "Farmer Card" initiative, to be piloted this year in 11 blocks across various districts before nationwide expansion. He said the card aims to protect farmers' interests, boost production, and ensure the sector's sustainable development.
World Bank representatives expressed interest in expanding investment in the agriculture sector, particularly in agricultural inputs, agro-processing, and market development—a proposal the minister welcomed.
Both sides expressed hope that mutual cooperation would be strengthened to ensure sustainable agricultural development and improve farmers' livelihoods.
Attendees included Agriculture Secretary Rafiqul I Mohamed, Fisheries and Livestock Secretary Md Delwar Hossain, senior officials from the ministries of agriculture, fisheries and livestock, and food, as well as World Bank South Asia Regional Director for Sustainable Development Dina Umali-Deininger, and other senior officials.
