The government is working to increase domestic cotton production to reduce import dependence. LGRD and Cooperatives State Minister Mir Shahe Alam said this while speaking as the chief guest at a programme organised by the Bogura Zone of the Cotton Development Board at Shibganj Upazila Auditorium. The programme marked the inauguration of the free distribution of hybrid cotton seeds, fertilisers, and pesticides among small and marginal farmers of Shibganj, Sonatala, and Gabtali upazilas to boost cotton cultivation and production during the 2026-27 season.
Mir Shahe Alam emphasized that higher domestic cotton production would help retain foreign exchange resources and support the country's textile sector. He assured that all farmers across the country would be brought under the Farmers' Card programme within the next four years. Highlighting the potential of cotton cultivation, he said cotton has multiple uses and can be processed into various products.
FAQs
- **Why is the government focusing on increasing domestic cotton production?** The government aims to reduce import dependence and strengthen the textile industry, which heavily relies on imported raw cotton. - **What initiatives are being taken to boost cotton production?** The government is distributing hybrid cotton seeds, fertilisers, and pesticides free of cost to small and marginal farmers in selected upazilas. - **How will increased cotton production benefit the economy?** Higher domestic production will help retain foreign exchange resources and support the textile and ready-made garment sectors, which are key export-earning industries. - **What assurance did the State Minister give to farmers?** Mir Shahe Alam assured that all farmers across the country would be brought under the Farmers' Card programme within the next four years.
