Disaster Management and Relief Minister Asadul Habib Dulu on Friday said corn has emerged as a branding crop of Lalmonirhat, prompting the authorities to name the central point of the district town Corn Square, which will be developed with an iconic architectural design.

“Just as India Gate is a symbol of Delhi and Faisal Mosque is a symbol of Islamabad, Corn Square will become a symbol of Lalmonirhat,” he said.

“Corn has now become the district's main cash crop. The lives of farmers in the region have changed through corn cultivation, bringing smiles to their faces,” Dulu said.

The minister made the remarks while addressing a gathering after inaugurating the construction of Corn Square in Lalmonirhat town in the afternoon.

Abul Kasem of Hatibandha in the district has been cultivating corn since 1991. At that time, corn yields were low and farmers showed little interest in the crop.

The situation has changed over the past three decades. Farmers in his village are now cultivating corn, as the local soil is suitable for the crop and yields are satisfactory. Farmers are also getting good prices for their produce.

Small agro-based industries are also developing around corn in the area, raising hopes of economic development in the relatively underdeveloped region.

Lalmonirhat Deputy Commissioner Md Rashedul Hoque Prodhan, District Council Administrator AKM Mominul Haque, government officials and political leaders were present on the programme.