Photo: Collected

DHAKA, June 8, 2026 (BSS) - Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF) and the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) today discussed potential areas of collaboration to advance Bangladesh's agricultural development, strengthen food security, generate employment and promote agriculture-based enterprises.

The discussion was held today at PKSF Bhaban-1 in Agargaon in the city, with PKSF Managing Director Md Fazlul Kader in the chair, according to a press release.

A delegation led by CIMMYT Bangladesh Country Representative Owen Calvert presented the organisation's ongoing activities and achievements in Bangladesh during the meeting.

CIMMYT highlighted its contributions to agricultural research and development in Bangladesh over the past four decades, particularly in developing improved germplasm, high-yielding and climate-resilient crop varieties, disease management and conservation agriculture practices, including minimum- and zero-tillage farming.

The organisation also showcased its work on intercropping, reducing post-harvest losses, farmer-led Living Libraries, carbon trading through Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) technology, farmer-friendly mobile applications with automated weather forecasts and the promotion of agricultural mechanisation tailored to farmers' needs.

According to the presentation, these initiatives have significantly contributed to increasing food grain production, enhancing farmers' incomes and making the country's agriculture more resilient and sustainable.

During the meeting, both organisations observed that there is substantial scope for cooperation in scaling up these initiatives to improve farmers' livelihoods, create employment opportunities and strengthen food and nutrition security across the country.

PKSF and CIMMYT expressed their commitment to jointly identify areas of mutual interest and work together to promote sustainable agricultural development, thereby contributing to Bangladesh's overall economic progress, the release added.