The government has begun a comprehensive transformation of the agriculture sector to ensure fair prices, improve market access and enable farmers to join export activities directly, Agriculture Minister Mohammad Amin Ur Rashid said.
He made the remarks on Wednesday in Jatiya Sangsad while replying to a starred question from Narsingdi-5 lawmaker Md Ashraf Uddin, during a session presided over by Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad Bir Bikram.
“Farmers’ produce will be delivered door-to-door through an online platform, while direct linkage to export operations will be ensured through a technology-driven and data-based production and marketing system,” he said.
He said the initiative focuses on integrating modern technology across production, storage and marketing.
A major shift is underway to connect farmers directly with consumers through digital systems, he said.
“We are restructuring the agricultural marketing system using modern technology and data-driven management,” he added.
The government has launched distribution of ‘Krishak Cards’ on a pre-pilot basis in 11 upazilas, including Tangail Sadar.
The card will provide farmers with 10 services, including fair price access, improved market linkage and essential support services, he said.
He said contract farming is being encouraged to allow farmers to participate directly in export processes.
Plans are also underway to establish agriculture-based export zones in the northern region to expand overseas market access, he said.
Under the ‘Partner’ project, modern one-stop hubs will be set up to provide input supply, advisory services, collection points, trading facilities and washing services, he said.
The government is also developing an online platform named ‘Smart Agriculture Market’ to enable direct interaction among farmers, wholesalers, retailers, entrepreneurs and consumers, he added.
Department of Agricultural Marketing has prepared a roadmap for crop-based export expansion, which is expected to strengthen Bangladesh’s presence in global markets once implemented, he said.
He said the coordinated initiatives aim to make the agriculture sector more modern, profitable and sustainable.
