Industries Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir on Saturday said the government is firmly committed to reopening closed state-owned sugar mills while ensuring the interests of sugarcane farmers, workers and the long-term profitability of the mills.
“The mills are assets of the people of Bangladesh and it is the government’s responsibility to ensure their honest and effective use. We want the closed factories to resume production, create employment opportunities and contribute to revitalising local economies,” he said.
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The minister came up with the remarks while addressing a views-exchange meeting with sugarcane farmers on the premises of Panchagarh Sugar Mills Limited as the chief guest.
A number of sugar mills in the country remain shut while many operational mills are functioning under various limitations, he said.
Modernisation, renovation and the introduction of new technologies are essential for their effective revival as most of the mills are between 50 and 70 years old, he said.
Besides, some mills would require installation of new machinery, while others would need infrastructure renovation or alternative operational plans, he said.
The minister also said functioning industrial establishments generate not only direct employment but also create economic opportunities for many people through related activities.
“When employment increases, money circulation in people’s hands rises, local economies become more active and poverty declines. Keeping that goal in mind, the government is advancing efforts to revive industries,” he added.
Chairman of Bangladesh Sugar and Food Industries Corporation (BSFIC) Md Jahangir Alam, Panchagarh-1 MP Barrister Nawshad Zamir, Industries Secretary Md Obaidur Rahman, BSCIC Chairman Md Saiful Islam, Panchagarh Deputy Commissioner Mosammat Shukria Parvin, District Council Administrator Md Touhidul Islam among others attended the programme.
Sugarcane farmers’ representatives, labour leaders and local dignitaries were also present.
Panchagarh Sugar Mills Limited was established during 1966-69 with a daily crushing capacity of 1,016 metric tonnes and began commercial production in 1969-70.
The mill is currently operated under the Bangladesh Sugar and Food Industries Corporation.