State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Aninda Islam Amit has said the government will introduce crop insurance for farmers to compensate losses caused by natural disasters.
He made the announcement on Friday while inaugurating the government’s Boro paddy procurement drive for the current season.
The programme was jointly organised by the district administration and the Directorate General of Food at the government silo on Railroad in the town.
Speaking as chief guest, the state minister said the proposed crop insurance scheme will provide financial protection to farmers affected by floods, storms, droughts and other natural calamities. He said it will reduce their vulnerability and strengthen security in agricultural production.
He also said the government has already started implementing its election pledges for farmers through the Farmers’ Card initiative. Under the scheme, farmers can buy agricultural inputs at subsidised prices and access low-interest agricultural loans when needed.
Amit said the government has also waived agricultural loans of up to Tk10,000 as part of its support for the farming community.
Highlighting agricultural progress, he said the foundation of Bangladesh’s agricultural development was laid by Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman through initiatives such as canal excavation, improved fertilisers, seeds and agricultural machinery.
He added that the current government, led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, has revived those initiatives to maintain momentum in the sector.
He further said that despite global challenges, uninterrupted supply of electricity, diesel and fertiliser has been ensured in line with farmers’ needs, contributing to a bumper Boro harvest this season.
Amit warned officials against irregularities in paddy procurement and stressed ensuring fair prices for farmers.
He formally inaugurated the procurement drive by purchasing paddy directly from marginal farmers and later planted a tree at the venue.
Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Ashek Hasan presided over the programme.
Superintendent of Police Syed Rafiqul Islam, District Controller of Food Safaur Rahman, Sadar Upazila Food Officer Md Mamunur Rahman, District Council Administrator Delwar Hossain Khokon, Sadar Upazila Nirbahi Officer Shahriar Haque and district BNP President Advocate Syed Saberul Haque Sabu were among those present.
Safaur Rahman said the procurement target for Jashore district this Boro season has been set at 15,166 tonnes. The government has fixed the procurement price of paddy at Tk36 per kilogram.
Farmers welcomed the initiative, saying it will help ensure fair prices for their produce.
