Canal excavation programme to be completed on schedule next year: Agriculture minister
The minister said agricultural scientists are continuing research and development to produce more resilient and higher-yielding rice varieties.
The Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation's (BADC) ongoing canal excavation programme will be completed within the scheduled timeframe next year, said Agriculture, Fisheries and Livestock Minister Mohammad Amin Ul Rashid Yasin.
He said all relevant departments have been instructed accordingly and are carrying out their responsibilities to ensure the work is completed on time.
Speaking to reporters after a meeting with officials of the agriculture and fisheries-livestock ministries at the Cumilla Circuit House today (1 August), he said the government plans to supply 118 new rice varieties to help reduce crop losses caused by floods and climate change, particularly in coastal areas.
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In the first phase, 30 tonnes of seed will be distributed, he said, adding that work is also underway to develop new salt-tolerant rice varieties for coastal regions.
The minister said agricultural scientists are continuing research and development to produce more resilient and higher-yielding rice varieties.
Referring to fish exports, Yasin said he would raise the issue of why exports are not taking place through the Bibir Bazar land port in Cumilla with the commerce minister, adding that they are scheduled to meet tomorrow (2 August).
He also assured that production of vaccines for livestock and poultry would be increased significantly.
