He said this today at the 6th meeting of the Governing Body of the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC). The minister further said that with proper use of natural or organic fertilizers, soil, environment, water and fish will remain safe. Bangladesh is almost self-sufficient in meat production, and by increasing research in this sector, it will be possible to export billions of dollars worth of meat in the future.

He informed that soil acidity (pH) is currently at an alarming level — in many places it is 4.5-5, whereas a pH above 6.5 is required for good crops. The Ministry of Agriculture is working on this matter. He also emphasized that research knowledge must be utilized in the national interest and that the ‘Khamari’ mobile app must be made more popular to deliver services to farmers.

Environment Minister Abdul Awal Mintu said innovations of government and private research institutions must be utilized in the national interest.

Agriculture Secretary, Fisheries Secretary, directors general of various research institutions and university teachers-researchers were present at the meeting.