President Praises Agricultural Scientists for Strengthening Food and Nutrition Security

President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has called for expanding agricultural research to address the challenges of climate change and food security while ensuring fair prices for farmers.

He made the call at a presentation and discussion session titled “BARI’s Contribution to Safe Food Production and Nutritional Security: Current Progress, Challenges, and Future Plans” held at the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI) High School ground in Gazipur on Thursday.

Upon his arrival at BARI’s main office, the President was welcomed by the agriculture minister, local members of parliament, the secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, the administrators of Gazipur City Corporation and Gazipur Zilla Parishad, the deputy commissioner of Gazipur, the commissioner of Gazipur Metropolitan Police, the superintendent of police of Gazipur, and scientists of the institute.

A smartly turned-out contingent of Bangladesh Police subsequently presented him with a guard of honour.

Later, the President visited the BARI Gene Bank, planted a sapling, and toured various stalls at a technology exhibition showcasing the institute’s agricultural innovations.

During the discussion session, the President praised the contributions of agricultural scientists to ensuring the country’s food and nutrition security. He emphasized the need to expand the scope of agricultural research to address future challenges arising from climate change and food insecurity. He also stressed the importance of ensuring fair prices for farmers.

Speaking at the event, Mohammad Amin Ur Rashid, Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries and Livestock, called for proper preservation of agricultural produce and initiatives to make Bangladesh’s agriculture globally competitive.

BARI Director General Dr. Md. Manjurul Kadir delivered the welcome address.

Dr. Md. Mosharraf Hossain Molla, Director (Support and Services) of BARI, presented data and findings on the institute’s contributions to safe food production and nutritional security, highlighting its current progress, challenges, and future plans.

Officials from various ministries, agricultural scientists, senior scientists from different divisions, centres and sections of BARI, and invited guests attended the event.

FP/MIB