More research needed in agriculture

The agriculture sector of the country requires more research for its development, so that the people and farmers can both be benefited, said speakers yesterday at a roundtable discussion.

Emphasising on integrating technology in agriculture sector, they also opined to prioritise the interest of the farmers.

Bangla daily Prothom Alo organised the roundtable in capital's CA Bhaban, to address the current problems and future challenges in agriculture.

At the programme, speakers shed light on different problems and solutions regarding agriculture and farmers, including exemption of taxes on agricultural raw materials, proper utilisation of land, ensuring food safety and bank loans for farmers.

Speaking at the programme, noted agriculture development activist Shykh Seraj said, “Agriculture will see further development in future, as technology will be implemented and different corporate companies will come in.”

However, he predicted that the whole sector will suffer sooner or later if the interest of farmers is not preserved.

Highlighting seed problems of farmers and emphasising on research as its solution, he said the main problem of farmers is ensuring good seeds. The government should focus on this, he opined.

Executive Director of Krishi Gobeshona Foundation (KGF) Wais Kabir opined that research is necessary to ensure multifarious uses of agricultural products.

Focusing on managing land for agricultural purpose, President of Krishibid Institution Bangladesh (KIB) AMM Saleh said arable land is decreasing, so there should be a policy regarding the use of land.

Poultry farm entrepreneur Shirin Sultana, also a national-level wrestler, said the price of poultry feed needs to be reduced so that poultry farmers can sell their products at a low cost and still make profit. She also stressed on integrating information regarding new advancements in agriculture, among the farmers.

Coordinator of Prothom Alo's youth programme Munir Hasan said youth must come forward in agriculture, to bring innovations to the sector.

Drawing attention to the past and present development of the government in agriculture, member of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Agriculture Ministry Abdul Mannan echoed the need for research in the sector, and said the government is providing more allocation in research than before.