Photo: Standard Chartered

DHAKA, Feb 4, 2025 (BSS) - Standard Chartered Bangladesh, in partnership with 
BRAC, has successfully completed two agricultural initiatives aimed at 
uplifting farmers in Sunamganj, Habiganj haor areas and the Barind region, 
helping them mitigate the adverse effects of climate change in flood and 
drought-prone areas. 

In addition, through second initiative has been completed to improve the 
livelihoods of 560 fishermen in the Sundarbans, said a press release.
 
Supporting farmers in climate-vulnerable regions under the first initiative, 
Standard Chartered and BRAC provided farmers with resilient seed inputs, 353 
types of essential agricultural technologies, post-harvest storage solutions, 
and training opportunities. The project also advanced sustainable 
agricultural mechanisation by introducing modern equipment and techniques, 
improving efficiency and productivity.

To further protect lives and livelihoods in haor regions, 34,825 palm trees 
were planted to reduce lightning-related fatalities-an increasingly common 
threat due to erratic weather patterns. 

In the Barind region, 28 solar-powered irrigation pumps were installed, 
lowering irrigation costs and creating additional income opportunities 
through water trading.

This comprehensive intervention addressed key phases of the agricultural 
cycle, equipping farmers with the knowledge and tools needed to enhance 
sustainability and food security. 

The second initiative focused on strengthening the livelihoods of small-scale 
fishermen by providing essential equipment, including boats and nets. With 
limited access to their own tools, many fishermen struggle to sustain their 
trade. 

By equipping 560 fishermen with resources tailored to their needs, the 
initiative is enabling them to take control of their economic futures.

Two types of boats--large engine-powered vessels and smaller boats-- were 
distributed to accommodate different fishing needs. A total of 10 large boats 
and nets were provided to support deep-sea fishing, particularly for Hilsa, 
while 56 small boats and nets were allocated for catching white fish within 
the mangrove forest area.

Bitopi Das Chowdhury, head of Corporate Affairs and Brand & Marketing of 
Standard Chartered Bangladesh, said, "Farmers and fishermen are at the heart 
of Bangladesh's economy, yet their livelihoods are among the most vulnerable 
to climate change. By equipping them with the right tools, knowledge, and 
sustainable solutions, we can help them not just survive, but thrive. Through 
our partnership with BRAC, we are championing resilience, modernisation, and 
financial inclusion-ensuring that those who feed the nation have the 
resources they need to build a stronger, more sustainable future."