Bangabandhu: The lifeline of farmers

Bangladesh has been an agrarian country since time immemorial. This country's land is very fertile. Rice is the staple food of the people of Bangladesh. Earlier on cultivation in Bangladesh was done in an ancient way. However, father of the nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman initiated strong measures to modernize the agricultural techniques.

Bangabandhu provided a great deal of aid to farmers for the procurement of better seeds and irrigation. Bangabandhu did a lot of work for the socio-economic advancement of farmers. Bangabandhu materialized a green revolution.  There were 7.50 crore people in the country after independence. There was food deficit of 25 to 30 tons. At that time Bangabandhu brought highly productive seeds, pesticides and sophisticated agricultural tools from abroad.

He got these things distributed among farmers. Bangabandhu also established Krishi Bank for providing agricultural loans on easier terms and conditions. He introduced the mechanization of agricultural tools. He gave first class status to agricultural officers which encouraged meritorious students to study agricultural science. Bangabandhu also made sure that farmers get the right price for their agricultural products. Bangladesh has become a role model in agricultural development under the leadership of Bangabandhu's capable daughter Sheikh Hasina.


The writer is Additional Deputy Director (Import), DAE