The government has undertaken a series of measures to ensure fair prices for salt farmers and expanded low-interest loan facilities to support salt cultivation in Cox's Bazar and Chattogram, Industries Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir told Parliament today. These initiatives aim to stabilize the salt market and provide financial relief to farmers.
Ensuring Fair Salt Prices
Industries Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir informed Parliament that the government has taken steps to determine the minimum price of salt at the farmers' level. This measure ensures that growers receive a fair price for their produce by verifying the production cost. The average farm-gate price for salt currently stands at Taka 337 per maund, compared to Taka 271 during the corresponding period last year.
Regulating Salt Imports
The government is regulating salt imports by fixing import ceilings for industrial use through the Ministry of Industries. To prevent the import of sodium chloride under the guise of sodium sulfate or disodium sulfate, laboratory testing is being ensured before customs clearance. The government is also reviewing import duty rates on salt to protect local farmers.
Financial Support for Farmers
To provide financial support to salt farmers, the Bangladesh Small and Cottage Industries Corporation (BSCIC) has introduced a Special Credit Programme. This programme offers collateral-free loans at a simple interest rate of five percent. So far, Taka 3.25 crore has been disbursed among 677 salt farmers under this initiative.
Additionally, genuine salt farmers are receiving loans at a concessional interest rate of four percent through scheduled banks under the Bangladesh Bank's Agricultural and Rural Credit Policy. This financial assistance aims to improve the quality of locally produced salt and support farmers in their cultivation efforts.
Significance and Future Steps
These measures are crucial for stabilizing the salt market and ensuring that farmers receive fair compensation for their produce. By regulating imports and providing financial support, the government aims to protect local farmers and enhance the quality of salt production. Moving forward, continued monitoring and support will be essential to maintain these benefits for the farming community.
