Agriculture Minister Mohammed Amin Ur Rashid has unveiled a new crop insurance programme aimed at safeguarding farmers against losses caused by natural disasters. The initiative is designed to provide financial protection to those whose crops are damaged by floods, droughts, or other unforeseen calamities.
Speaking at a rice distribution event held at Shampur High School in Adarsha Sadar Upazila, Comilla District, the Minister highlighted the significance of the scheme for the farming community. The event was jointly organised by the Upazila administration and the Office of the Upazila Food Controller.
“The government will compensate farmers through insurance if their crops are destroyed due to natural disasters,” said the Minister. “This is a crucial step in reducing the financial burden on our farmers and ensuring their economic stability.”
Minister Rashid further emphasised that the government is gradually implementing promises made prior to the last elections. While sceptics doubted the feasibility of these pledges, significant progress has been achieved since Prime Minister Tarik Rahman assumed office.
In addition, the Minister noted that other programmes have already been successfully executed, including the distribution of family cards, farmer cards, and stipends for imams and muezzins. Recognising agriculture as the backbone of the national economy, he stated that a large portion of the population remains engaged in this vital sector.
Alongside crop insurance, the government has introduced several measures to strengthen farmers’ financial resilience:
| Initiative | Description | Objective |
|---|---|---|
| Incentive Grants | Assistance for seeds, fertiliser, and agricultural tools | Increase production |
| Accessible Agricultural Loans | Loans provided under simplified conditions | Ensure financial stability |
| Insurance Coverage | Compensation for losses due to natural disasters | Reduce risk exposure |
| Stipends & Recognition | Financial support for imams and muezzins | Promote social support |
The Minister reassured citizens that the country’s food reserves are sufficient and that no shortages are anticipated in the coming months. “Ensuring farmers’ financial security remains a top government priority,” he added.
The event concluded with the distribution of 30 kg of rice each to 1,879 beneficiaries from Amratoli Union under the ‘Food-Friendly’ programme. Such initiatives are expected to play a vital role in protecting farmers, enhancing productivity, and strengthening food security nationwide.
By combining crop insurance, ongoing support schemes, and financial incentives, the government aims to shield farmers from both natural disasters and market fluctuations, thereby sustaining the agricultural sector’s growth and resilience.