Dhaka, Bangladesh – May 21, 2025 – Bangladesh is embarking on a long-term plan to ensure sustainable and modernized agricultural production, aiming to provide safe and nutritious food for everyone until 2050. This ambitious plan is set to be finalized during the interim government's tenure, according to Agriculture Secretary Dr. Mohammad Emdad Ullah Mian.
Dr. Mian made these remarks at a press conference held at the Foreign Service Academy in Bailey Road, Dhaka, this afternoon. He was accompanied by Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Mohammad Shafiqul Alam and Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture Dr. Md. Mahmudur Rahman.
The Agriculture Secretary highlighted the government's commitment to making the country's agriculture scientific and technology-driven. To achieve this, all services under the Ministry of Agriculture will be integrated into a single Management Information System (MIS).
Furthermore, a new mobile application called 'Khamari' is being launched. This app will bring every land mouza (a geographical unit in land records) under a centralized database, incorporating all agriculture-related information such as fertilizers, seeds, pesticides, irrigation, crop diversification, weather data, and disease outbreaks.
"Through this app, farmers will receive comprehensive information and services, from knowing which crops to cultivate in which season, to care instructions, and harvesting guidance," Dr. Emdad Ullah explained.
The government also plans to work long-term to develop educated women and young people into agricultural entrepreneurs. Efforts are also underway to enhance the capacity of private sector businesses involved in agriculture.
Dr. Mian noted that crop production has been favorable this year, with satisfactory yields of rice and other crops. To address post-harvest losses of perishable vegetables, potatoes, and onions, modern cold storage and preservation facilities are being established.
Recalling the extensive damage caused by sudden floods in 23 districts last August, the Agriculture Secretary stated that farmers received special incentives and oversight to help them recover from the losses. He also affirmed that due to the government's timely actions and leadership, a large outstanding amount for fertilizer purchases has been paid, ensuring a normal supply of fertilizers across the country. "There is currently no fertilizer shortage in the country," he confirmed.
Following Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus's recent visit to China, the government has intensified efforts to export agricultural products, especially mangoes, to China. The first consignment of mangoes is expected to be shipped to China this very month. Bangladesh's annual mango production is approximately 2.7 million metric tons, with exports currently going to several countries. The government is actively exploring new markets for mangoes and promoting exports.
Beyond mangoes, the government is also working on exporting jackfruit and other fruits. Various projects and incentive programs are being provided to mango farmers to support exports to China and other global markets.
The Secretary later responded to various questions from journalists.
