Sector-wide measures in Bangladesh's agriculture for lasting food security

Published 04 Dec,2020 via The Financial Express - Bangladesh was recently termed as the "South Asian Miracle" in a top Indian daily. Clocking a GDP growth rate of 8.15 per cent in FY 2019, it was ahead of not only its giant neighbour, India, but also Pakistan.

However, the unprecedented pandemic situation has led to a disruption in this ascent of Bangladesh, generating a havoc in the economy. All sectors of our economy have been badly affected and the GDP growth rate has fallen sharply. For tens of thousands, their worst nightmares have come true - that of being rendered jobless. The harshest effect has been on those in the informal economy, who live a hand-to-mouth existence and many have resorted to begging as a last resort for a livelihood.

One sector that has demonstrated relative resilience to the disruptions accompanying the pandemic is the agriculture sector. This sector has steadfastly stood by our side during our worst times, ensuring primary food production. While other sectors halted their activities, agricultural production has continued, even in the face of huge losses, since its nature is such that it cannot simply stop producing at any time. In fact, the Planning Minister was recently quoted as calling this sector, the country's "new hero". However, the sad part is that despite ensuring production, the farmers have not been able to reap the benefits. Many have had to either sell their harvest at throwaway prices or have been forced to dump their produce, particularly perishable ones, in the absence of credible marketing opportunities. Thus, even though our farmers have delivered, they have not been delivered back. Their woes have been further compounded by the recent spate of rains and consequent floods.