Photo: BSS

SYLHET, Nov 2, (BSS) - Secretary to the Agriculture Ministry Dr. Mohammad Emdad Ullah Mia today said a long-term plan extending up to 2050 is being formulated to ensure the sustainable development of country's agriculture sector.

"The government has prioritized agriculture and is adopting a comprehensive plan for the sector up to 2050. For this, opinions from all stakeholders and an analysis of existing limitations will be incorporated to finalize the plan," the secretary said at a workshop here.

Additional Secretary of the PPC Wing of Agriculture Ministry Dr. Md. Mahmudur Rahman chaired the workshop titled 'Transforming Bangladesh's Agriculture: Outlook 2050'.

Noting the unique agricultural opportunities of Sylhet, Mohammad Emdad said Sylhet region offers unique opportunities for agricultural development due to its Haor wetlands, hills, and large areas of fallow land. "Effective utilization of these uncultivated lands could significantly boost agricultural production," he said.

He also stressed the importance of using pesticides and chemical fertilizers in moderation and promoting safe food production and called for stronger inter-ministerial coordination and collective efforts to advance the country's agriculture.

Sylhet Divisional Commissioner (Additional Secretary) Khan Md. Reza-un-Nabi and Sylhet Deputy Commissioner Md. Sarwar Alam attended the workshop as special guests.

Additional Secretary Dr. Md. Mahmudur Rahman presented the keynote paper and Sylhet Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) additional director agriculturist Dr. Md. Mosharraf Hossain presented a paper on Sylhet's agricultural situation and future plans. 

Senior officials from various departments, agencies, farmers, and agricultural entrepreneurs, took part in group and open discussions to share their views at the workshop.

Representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture, its affiliated offices, and the DAE Sylhet Region were also present.