Bangladesh Bank (BB) has directed all scheduled banks to give priority to farmers affected by recent heavy rainfall in accessing agricultural credit under its refinancing scheme, aiming to support recovery efforts and safeguard farm production in vulnerable areas.
The central bank issued the instruction through a circular of its Financial Inclusion Department (FID) on Tuesday.
Under the directive, banks must ensure quick and priority-based loan disbursement to farmers in flood-hit haor regions and other areas where heavy rainfall has damaged crops and disrupted agricultural activities.
Bangladesh Bank said farmers in Sylhet, Sunamganj, Habiganj, Kishoreganj, Netrokona and Moulvibazar have suffered significant losses due to adverse weather conditions. It said timely access to credit is essential to restore agricultural production and protect livelihoods in those districts.
The circular also instructed banks to prioritise Krishak Smart Card holders when providing loans from the refinancing fund for marginal and landless farmers, sharecroppers, small account holders and micro-enterprises.
The measure aims to help affected farmers secure working capital quickly for crop rehabilitation, purchasing agricultural inputs and continuing farming activities despite weather-related challenges.
However, the central bank clarified that eligible farmers must not be denied loans solely because they do not yet possess a Krishak Smart Card.
Bangladesh Bank said the special focus on flood-affected farmers reflects its commitment to supporting rural communities facing climate-related challenges and maintaining food production across the country.
All other provisions of the existing refinancing scheme will remain unchanged, the circular added.
