The Interim Government will cancel fertilizer licenses that were granted based on political considerations, announced Agriculture Advisor Lieutenant General (Retd.) Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury. Speaking to reporters at the Ministry of Agriculture on Monday (July 21), he said a corrupt syndicate had previously infiltrated the agricultural sector, causing significant harm. The government will take strict action against those involved in such misconduct, he added.
The advisor emphasized that under the current interim administration, transparency and accountability in fertilizer procurement have improved significantly.
Addressing the country’s food situation, Chowdhury stated that there is no risk of a food crisis, as last season's paddy harvest exceeded the target by 1.5 million metric tons. Additionally, vegetable, onion, and potato production has been robust this year.
However, due to an oversupply of potatoes, farmers are facing low market prices. To address this, the government has decided to include potatoes in the Open Market Sale (OMS) program to support both farmers and consumers.
He further explained that shortly after the interim government assumed responsibility, severe crop damage occurred in five districts due to various challenges. Additionally, the government initially faced difficulties in paying for fertilizer imports, but that crisis has now been resolved. Fertilizer stock is sufficient until at least November, he confirmed.
To ensure fertilizer is imported at a reasonable cost, the government has recently signed an agreement with Malaysia. Chowdhury assured that there is currently no shortage of fertilizer in the country.
On the topic of disaster response, the advisor mentioned that vegetable seeds are being distributed in flood-affected areas including Cumilla, Chandpur, Brahmanbaria, Cox’s Bazar, Noakhali, and Feni. The government has made extensive preparations for rehabilitation.
Additionally, the Ministry of Agriculture distributed approximately 3.3 million saplings of various plant species during the last fiscal year, he added.
