Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Minister Saber Hossain Chowdhury reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting climate-resilient crops as a key strategy for ensuring food security in coastal communities. The minister shared this vision during a meeting with Dr. Pratibha Singh, the South Asia regional director of the Australian Centre for International Agriculture Research (ACIAR), at his office in the Secretariat.
Dr. Mrinmoy Guha Neogi, deputy project leader at the University of Western Australia, also participated in the discussion, underscoring the importance of collaboration in advancing sustainable agricultural practices.
Minister Saber highlighted the potential of salt-tolerant crops, stating that they can play a crucial role in providing food and income in areas where traditional crops face challenges. Specifically, salt-tolerant wheat and pulses were identified as key players in making a significant difference for farmers in southern Bangladesh.
Dr. Pratibha Singh expressed ACIAR’s commitment to supporting research and development focused on climate-resilient crops thriving in challenging environments. The collaboration aims to work closely with Bangladeshi partners to develop and disseminate these technologies, fostering agricultural sustainability.
The meeting emphasized the urgency of further research and comprehensive activities to introduce salt-tolerant wheat and pulses to farmers’ fields, particularly in coastal regions affected by salinity intrusion.
In a separate interaction, Uma Bhattacharya, trustee of Swaniti Initiative, a New Delhi-based research foundation, met with Minister Saber Hossain to discuss additional avenues for environmental and agricultural advancements. The government’s proactive stance and collaborations with international partners underscore its dedication to a greener and more resilient future for Bangladesh.
