‘No concerns about food security’

Staff Reporter :

Food Adviser Ali Imam Majumdar has assured that Bangladesh currently has sufficient food reserves and there is no threat to food security, thanks to government efforts and strong agricultural output.

During a visit to Bhatshala Haor in Austagram upazila of Kishoreganj on Saturday, the adviser said that despite recent flood damage to Aman crops, the government has compensated through timely imports of food grains. A bumper Boro harvest is expected this season, which will likely lead to a surplus of food, he added.

“Farmers and rice cultivators are the front-line soldiers of the nation’s development,” the adviser told a gathering of local farmers. “If they are well, the country will prosper.”

He praised the resilience of Haor farmers and emphasized that the government is working to ensure fair crop prices, adequate supply of fertilizers and seeds, and better storage facilities.

Addressing local concerns, the adviser acknowledged challenges related to irrigation, road connectivity, and drinking water. He instructed the district commissioner to resolve the issues promptly.

Ali Imam Majumdar also pointed out that many canals in the Haor region are drying up, partly due to illegal activities and natural navigability problems. He stressed the need for local canal digging and dredging of major rivers like the Meghna.

Highlighting the economic diversification of Haor communities, he noted that in addition to rice, farmers are now cultivating maize, vegetables, and are also involved in fish farming and poultry raising.

“Haor is a region of great potential. The government is committed to developing its infrastructure and improving socio-economic conditions,” he said.

The adviser concluded his visit with an inspection of the Boro fields, accompanied by senior officials including Police Superintendent Mohammad Hasan Chowdhury, Upazila Nirbahi Officer Dilshad Jahan, and Agriculture Officer Abhijit Sarkar.