Fisheries, Livestock, Food and Agriculture Minister Mohammad Aminur Rashid has said that with proper planning, efficient management and effective field-level initiatives, agro-products can be established as the country’s leading export commodities. He emphasized that newly recruited officers working closely at the grassroots level can transform agricultural potential into economic strength while ensuring food security and socio-economic development.

The Minister made these remarks on Thursday afternoon while addressing the closing ceremony of a five-day orientation course for newly appointed cadre officers of the 44th BCS (Livestock) at the Soil Resource Development Institute in the capital.

Highlighting global examples, the Minister noted that many countries remain snow-covered for four to eight months a year, yet have successfully developed agriculture as the backbone of their economies despite limited growing seasons. In contrast, Bangladesh enjoys a favorable climate and fertile soil that allow year-round crop production. However, he stressed that greater initiatives are required to achieve the desired economic outcomes.

He underscored the importance of proper utilization of organic resources, stating that processed and properly applied cow dung can significantly reduce reliance on chemical fertilizers, lower environmental pollution and preserve soil fertility. “We are spending billions importing chemical fertilizers. If we use organic manure efficiently, both our soil and environment will be protected,” he said.

Addressing the newly recruited officers, the Minister urged them to uphold integrity, responsibility and professionalism in delivering public services. He said that effective use of the country’s natural and agricultural resources would enable future generations to enjoy a prosperous, sustainable Bangladesh. Dedicated fieldwork, he added, would help build a strong economic foundation in agriculture and food security.

The Minister further said that since assuming office, the present democratic government has undertaken multifaceted plans to develop the livestock sector. Initiatives include ensuring fair prices for livestock farmers, facilitating easy loans and insurance coverage, and introducing farmers’ cards to streamline marketing. He emphasized the need to support entrepreneurs and small-scale farmers to sustain growth in the livestock industry.

Fisheries and Livestock Secretary Abu Taher Muhammad Jaber attended the event as special guest. The session was chaired by Director General of the Department of Livestock Services, Dr. Md. Abu Sufian. Director Dr. Md. Boyzar Rahman delivered the welcome address. Director General of the Soil Resource Development Institute, Dr. Begum Samia Sultana, along with senior officials from the ministry and its departments, were also present.

At the end of the program, the Minister distributed certificates among the meritorious newly appointed officers.