The government is set to introduce a ‘Farmer Card’ to support growers, with a pilot programme to be rolled out in 11 agricultural blocks initially, Agriculture and Fisheries & Livestock Minister Mohammed Amin Ur Rashid said on Sunday.
The minister made the announcement during a meeting with a World Bank delegation led by Jean Pesme, Division Director for Bangladesh and Bhutan, at the ministry.
“The initiative to launch the Farmer Card has already been taken and will be implemented nationwide in phases,” the minister said. “As part of the first phase, the pilot programme will begin this year in 11 blocks across different districts, which will gradually be expanded across the country.”
He said the card is expected to help safeguard farmers’ interests, boost agricultural production and ensure sustainable development in the sector.
During the meeting, World Bank representatives expressed interest in increasing investment in Bangladesh’s agriculture sector, particularly in the supply of agricultural inputs, agro-processing and market development.
The minister welcomed the proposal, and both sides expressed optimism about strengthening cooperation to promote sustainable agricultural development and improve farmers’ livelihoods.
Agriculture Ministry Secretary Rafiqul I Mohamed, Fisheries and Livestock Ministry Secretary Md Delwar Hossain, senior officials from the agriculture, fisheries, livestock and food ministries, and World Bank Regional Director for Sustainable Development in South Asia Dina Umali-Deininger, among others, were present at the meeting.