The Economic Relations Division (ERD) of the Ministry of Finance has formalised a technical assistance project agreement with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

ERD Secretary Sharifa Khan and FAO Representative in Bangladesh, Robert D Simpson, signed the agreement on behalf of their respective organisations on Tuesday, according to a press release.

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The core objective of this collaboration is to evaluate the potential of mechanised ratooning rice systems, it said.

The project aims to achieve the development of a regional project proposal to expedite the transformation of rice-based agri-food systems by promoting the adoption and expansion of mechanised ratoon rice cultivation, it added.

The project also intends to identify and make available rice cultivars and germplasm with strong ratooning capabilities.

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With the help of FAO, the government aims to create and implement ecologically sustainable management practises for mechanised rice ratooning, the release also said.

The project also aims to enhance awareness among diverse stakeholders regarding ratoon rice technology through project workshops and field exhibitions, fostering the exchange and dissemination of knowledge and experience, it said.

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Implementation of the project will be led by the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute under the Ministry of Agriculture, according to the press release.

This collaborative initiative will be carried out simultaneously in Bangladesh, China, and Vietnam.

The allocated budget for the project in Bangladesh amounts to US$146,044.

The project's execution falls within the framework of FAO's Country Programming Framework for 2022–2026. This framework is centred on the attainment of improved production, nutrition, environmental sustainability, and overall quality of life for all citizens, leaving no one behind.