Farmers must get highest quality seeds to boost productivity: Adviser

Agriculture Adviser Lt Gen Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury has stressed for the need to increase agricultural production by providing high-quality seeds and other inputs.

During a meeting at the Secretariat, the adviser underscored that "the seeds provided to farmers must be of the highest quality. Poor-quality seeds result in substandard crop yields, affecting overall agricultural productivity."

Secretary Dr Mohammad Emdad Ullah Mian, senior ministry officials, and heads of various departments and organisations were also present at the meeting.

The adviser assured that there is no shortage of fertiliser for now but stressed the importance of ensuring timely delivery to farmers.

"The fertiliser supply chain must remain orderly to guarantee that farmers receive their supplies when they need them," he said.

In addition to seeds and fertilisers, the adviser also focused on the role of farm mechanisation in increasing production.

However, he cautioned that the impact on farmer employment must be taken into consideration.

"We must strike a balance between modernising agriculture and ensuring that farmers' livelihoods are not negatively affected by mechanisation," he said.

Mr Chowdhury took a firm stand against corruption, stating that it will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

"No recommendations will be accepted for any corrupt individuals. Corruption deprives farmers, who often do not receive fair prices due to intermediaries and dishonest practices," he warned.

He also linked the ongoing student movement to wider concerns, stating that "the students' movement is not just an anti-quota movement but also a movement against corruption.

In his concluding remarks, the adviser instructed field-level officers and employees of the departments and organisations to prioritise serving farmers.

"Ensure that all your efforts at the workplace are directed toward supporting and serving our farmers," he added.

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