Photo: BSS

DHAKA, Feb 24, 2026 (BSS) - Kurigram Agricultural University (KuriAU) Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Rashedul Islam paid a courtesy call on Agriculture, Food and Fisheries and Livestock Minister Mohammad Amin Ur Rashid at the latter's residence on Monday.

During the meeting, the VC lauded the "Krishak Card" programme announced by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and described it as a landmark initiative aimed at ensuring direct benefits for farmers. 

He also appreciated various agriculture-friendly measures taken by the present government.

Both sides expressed hope that the Krishak Card would facilitate marginal and small farmers' access to government subsidies, incentives and financial assistance, contributing to increased agricultural production and improved livelihoods.

They discussed overall development of the agriculture sector, expansion of research and innovation, and implementation of farmer welfare programmes.

Minister Mohammad Amin Ur Rashid laid special emphasis on boosting agricultural development in the vast char areas of northern Bangladesh, which are prone to river erosion, floods and other natural disasters. 

He underscored the need for research-based initiatives to develop sustainable organic farming systems in those areas.

He urged Kurigram Agricultural University to take a leading role in developing salinity- and water-logging-tolerant crop varieties, expanding modern cultivation techniques, accelerating farm mechanisation and strengthening farmers' training programmes.

The VC informed the Minister Rashid about a plan to establish a Char Institute under the university to conduct specialised research for char region development. 

The Minister instructed him to take necessary steps in this regard and assured full support.

Prof Rashedul Islam also briefed the Minister on the university's ongoing research activities, agricultural extension efforts and coordinated work plans with local farmers.