Agriculture, Fisheries and Livestock Minister Mohammad Amin Ur Rashid has warned the government will adopt a "zero-tolerance" policy against any irregularities or corruption in the distribution of seeds, livestock vaccines and other assistance for farmers affected by the recent floods.
Speaking at a meeting with divisional and district-level officials at Chattogram Circuit House on Saturday, the minister said the flood-hit region has suffered extensive damage and that the government is working to help farmers and livestock rearers recover as quickly as possible.
Govt mapping out flood damage to support affected farmers: Agriculture Minister
"Although it is not possible for the government to compensate for all the losses at once, we are providing seeds, fertilizers, livestock vaccines and other essential support so that affected farmers can resume production," he said.
He directed officials to ensure that no extra charges are collected from beneficiaries and that government assistance reaches genuine flood victims without discrimination.
"The government will not tolerate any irregularities similar to those witnessed in the past," the minister said, warning that action would be taken against anyone found involved in malpractice.
Highlighting livestock protection measures, he said all cattle in flood-affected areas would be brought under the Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccination programme within the next 15 days.
He also instructed officials to ensure booster doses are administered on schedule to animals vaccinated six months ago.
"Every livestock death causes significant financial and emotional hardship for farmers. That is why the government is accelerating the vaccination campaign," he said.
The minister asks officials to work with utmost responsibility to ensure that all government assistance reaches the intended beneficiaries and that no deserving farmer is deprived of support.
He also warned that any allegation of negligence or irregularity would be investigated promptly and appropriate action taken.