Dhaka, Feb 23 (V7N)- The government has taken an initiative to introduce agricultural cards for farmers to ensure direct access to services and reduce the influence of middlemen, Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan said on Monday.

He made the remarks after a meeting on the proposed agricultural card held at the Bangladesh Secretariat, chaired by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.

The minister said the initiative is part of the government’s election commitment and that a high-level meeting involving relevant ministries is underway to finalize implementation. He added that the first meeting under the Prime Minister’s leadership was held to begin executing the plan and that a pilot project will be launched soon, similar to the family card program.

Replying to a question on the timeline, he said the exact date cannot be specified yet due to necessary preparations, but the Prime Minister has instructed authorities to implement the project as quickly as possible.

According to the minister, the card will allow farmers to access a wide range of services related to agricultural production. This includes easier access to modern farming knowledge and machinery, as well as support for key inputs such as fertilizers, pesticides, and seeds. Farmers will also receive updates on market conditions, production trends, and weather forecasts through a digital system to help them plan more effectively.

He emphasized that the government aims to introduce a smart farmer card to prevent leakages and ensure benefits reach farmers directly, similar to how mobile SIM users receive services linked to banks. The system will enable direct communication between farmers and the state, making it easier to identify problems and plan policies.

The minister added that the long-term goal is to bring all farmers across the country under the program. However, implementation will begin with a pilot in a specific area or among a limited number of farmers before being expanded nationwide.

END/SMA/AJ