Modern tech can improve agriculture

Speakers at a discussion yesterday said alongside more budgetary allocation in agriculture, introduction of modern technology in the sector is essential for food production, and to gain food sufficiency.

They said the government should conduct more quality research on the sector for better yields, while increase of institutional capacity of agriculture-related government organisations will help better food management.

Bangladesh Agricultural Economists' Association (BAEA) arranged the discussion on “Review of the Proposed Budget for the 2018-19 Fiscal Year” at Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council in the capital.

Shamsul Alam, member (senior secretary), General Economic Division of Bangladesh Planning Commission, said despite being an economic lifeline, annual increase of allocation in last one decade was lowest at 7.6 percent in agriculture among major sectors.

Shamsul said although the country achieved significant economic growth, gap between the poor and rich increased over the years.

“If investment in agriculture is increased, it will help poor people to have better income opportunity and reduce income gap,” he added.

Formulation of a legal framework is required for formalising genetically-modified seeds in the country, said Prof Emeritus MA Sattar Mandal of Bangladesh Agricultural University. He also stressed on building capacity of organisations working with biotechnology.

He said a coalition or platform may be launched, which will help producing agricultural machines in the country. Recognition of such activities as agro-related industry is also required.

Speaking as chief guest, Finance Minister AMA Muhith urged agricultural economists to utilise resources while working for the extension of agriculture in the country. He also stressed the need for using the benefit of modern technology, including information and communication technology, for betterment of the sector.

Fair crop price has to be ensured to encourage farmers for better yields, and for this, a price commission can be initiated, said BAEA President Sazzadul Hasan.

BAEA Secretary General M Kamruzzaman also spoke at the seminar.