SAARC Agriculture Centre unveils books on food safety and agroecology at Ekushey Book Fair Dhaka. Photo : Collected

DHAKA, Mar 15, 2026 (BSS) - SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) has unveiled two publications at Amar Ekushey Book Fair 2026 highlighting key regional priorities in agricultural development and sustainable food systems in South Asia. 

The books, titled 'Fostering Agricultural Trade through Harmonized Food Safety Standards in South Asia' and 'Promoting Agroecological Approaches for the Sustainable Transformation of Agri-food Systems in South Asia', were officially launched during a ceremony held on the fair premises on Saturday, according to a press release issued today.

Dr P Chandra Shekara, Director General of the Centre on Integrated Rural Development for Asia and the Pacific (CIRDAP), attended the book unveiling ceremony as the chief guest. Dr Md Harunur Rashid, Director of the SAARC Agriculture Centre, presided over the event. 

The programme began with a welcome speech delivered by Dr Md Younus Ali, Senior Programme Specialist (Livestock) at SAC. 

In his address, Dr Younus Ali emphasised the importance of regional knowledge sharing and collaborative research to address common agricultural challenges in South Asia. 

He noted that stronger cooperation among researchers and policymakers can help improve food safety systems and support sustainable agricultural development across the SAARC region.

Speaking as the chief guest, Dr Chandra Shekara highlighted the growing need for harmonised food safety standards to facilitate agricultural trade within South Asia. 

He stated that improving regulatory cooperation and strengthening institutional capacity would help build trust in regional food markets and support rural livelihoods.

Dr Harunur Rashid said South Asia's agriculture is facing increasing pressures from climate change, land degradation and market uncertainties. 

He said agroecological approaches and science-based policy guidance are essential for building resilient agri-food systems and ensuring long-term food security for the SAARC region.