In a determined move, the government has embarked on a transformative journey, shifting its focus from the exclusive reliance on sugar production to breathe new life into the nation’s sugar mills. These pivotal changes were articulated by Industries Secretary Zakia Sultana.
Charting a New Course: The Quest for Profitable Sugar Mills
The government’s vision unfolds through a multifaceted approach. Zakia Sultana revealed that they are crafting a path of collaboration, drawing local and international entrepreneurs into the fold. Their mission? To uncover fresh and innovative avenues for making our sugar mills not just operational but notably profitable. Imagine a gathering at the Faridpur Sugar Mill, where sugarcane farmers, laborers, and officials congregated for an exchange of ideas.
Guiding the Ship: Leadership at the Helm
At this meeting, the Chairman of Bangladesh Sugar and Food Industries Corporation, Md Arifur Rahman Apu, skillfully steered the proceedings. Adding his voice to the discourse was Deputy Commissioner of Faridpur, Md Kamrul Ahsan Talukder, lending depth to the discussions.
Sweetening the Deal: Reviving Sugarcane Prices
Crucially, the Industries Secretary shed light on a pivotal aspect of this strategy – a surge in the price of sugarcane. The government has taken a bold step by elevating the price to Tk220 per maund. The primary intent? To incentivize farmers to expand their sugarcane cultivation, breathing fresh life into this vital sector. What’s more, they have set their sights on an even higher price of Tk240 per maund for the upcoming season. An enticing prospect indeed!
Empowering the Farmers: Quality Inputs and Efficient Payments
Secretary Zakia Sultana didn’t stop there. She underscored the government’s unwavering commitment to bolstering our sugarcane farmers. This commitment finds expression in the provision of high-quality sugarcane seeds and top-tier fertilizers. Equally significant is the streamlining of payment processes, ensuring that our hardworking farmers receive their rightful earnings in a timely manner. This streamlined efficiency has played a pivotal role in enhancing sugarcane production per acre. A remarkable achievement, wouldn’t you say?
Bridging the Gap: The “Bandhu Seba” App
In today’s digital age, the government has harnessed technology to bridge the gap. They’ve introduced the “Bandhu Seba” app, a groundbreaking tool connecting approximately 65,000 sugarcane farmers. Through this digital platform, farmers gain access to invaluable instructions and guidance, thereby significantly enhancing their productivity. It’s akin to having a personal mentor at your fingertips—a modern twist on agriculture that’s driving success.
Cultivating Growth: Advanced Agricultural Practices
Efforts are also in full swing to rejuvenate sugarcane production in areas where sugar mill operations have momentarily halted. How? By implementing advanced agricultural practices that not only boost yields but also ensure the sustainable growth of the sugar industry. It’s all about nurturing prosperity.
Fiscal Responsibility: Addressing Debt Issues
The government isn’t shying away from financial challenges. Secretary Zakia Sultana emphasized their commitment to addressing the debt issues faced by the Bangladesh Sugar and Food Industry Corporation. They’ve launched comprehensive efforts to ensure the repayment of government debt while implementing measures to prevent the accumulation of interest over time. Fiscal prudence in action!
Uniting for Success: Transforming Faridpur Sugar Mill
In closing, Secretary Zakia Sultana called upon all stakeholders to unite and work diligently in the pursuit of transforming the Faridpur Sugar Mill into a thriving and profitable enterprise. She aptly highlighted the mill’s historical significance, established during the tenure of Bangabandhu, and expressed her unwavering optimism that collective efforts would undoubtedly lead to the fulfillment of their set objectives. A bright future beckons!
Reference and Source: The Business Standard