The Agriculture Minister, Mohammed Amin Ur Rashid, has recently announced the introduction of a new crop insurance programme aimed at safeguarding the nation’s farmers against losses caused by natural disasters. The scheme is designed to provide financial compensation to farmers whose crops are damaged due to floods, droughts, or other extreme weather events, thereby ensuring their economic stability.
Speaking at a rice distribution event at Shampur High School in Adarsha Sadar Upazila, Comilla District, the Minister emphasised the importance of the initiative. The event was jointly organised by the Upazila administration and the local food controller’s office. “If a farmer’s crop is destroyed by natural calamities, the government will provide compensation through this insurance. It is a crucial step towards reducing the financial burden on our farmers,” he said.
The Minister highlighted that several pledges made prior to the last election are now being implemented progressively. “Many doubted whether these promises would come to fruition. However, since Prime Minister Tarik Rahman assumed office, these initiatives have been actively pursued,” he added.
In addition, the Minister noted that various support programmes have already been operational, including the issuance of Family Cards, Farmers’ Cards, and honourariums for imams and muazzins. Acknowledging agriculture as the backbone of the national economy, he pointed out that a significant portion of the country’s population depends directly on this sector for their livelihood.
Alongside crop insurance, the government has introduced several measures to enhance farmers’ financial capacity:
| Initiative | Description | Objective |
|---|---|---|
| Incentive Grants | Assistance for seeds, fertilisers, and farming tools | Increase productivity |
| Accessible Agricultural Loans | Loans provided on favourable terms | Financial stability |
| Insurance Benefits | Compensation for losses due to natural disasters | Risk mitigation |
| Honourariums | Payments for imams and muazzins | Social support |
Assuring citizens of sufficient national food reserves, the Minister stressed that no shortage would occur in the coming months. “Ensuring the financial security of farmers remains the government’s top priority,” he affirmed.
The event concluded with the distribution of 30 kilograms of rice each to 1,879 beneficiaries from Amratoli Union under the “Food-Friendly” programme. Such initiatives are expected to strengthen both the protection and productivity of farmers.
Through the combination of crop insurance, ongoing support measures, and financial incentives, the government is committed to shielding farmers from both natural and market risks. This programme marks a significant step towards stabilising and modernising the agricultural sector, opening new prospects for domestic farmers that guarantee not only enhanced production but also economic security.