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Industrialists urged to invest in agro-processing sector


Published : 03 Apr 2021 10:13 PM

Agriculture Minister Dr Md Abdur Razzaque called upon the industrialists of the country to invest more in the agro-processing sector. There is a huge scope for investment in the sector, he said. 

He made the call while speaking as the chief guest at the ‘ACI Deepto Krishi Awards-2020' distribution ceremony, organised by the Deepto TV at its office at Tejgaon in the capital on Friday afternoon. 

Fisheries and Livestock Minister SM Rezaul Karim was present at the event as special guest. Managing Director of Deepto TV Kazi Jahedul Hasan and Managing Director of ACI Agribusiness F H Ansari also spoke on the occasion, among others. 

Dr Abdur Razzaque said, “The country is now producing various agricultural products throughout the year. Most of the agricultural products, including tomato, pineapple and potato, have low prices during the harvesting season. In many cases, farmers are affected. Farmers will be benefited if they can process these products. The industrialists of country’s private sector must come forward to invest in in the agro-processing sector.”

The minister also said, “Most of the people in the country still now depend on agriculture directly or indirectly. If the agriculture is developed, the overall development of the country will be further accelerated. Industrialization will be further accelerated by increasing employment and income of rural people and expanding the domestic market”. 

He lauded the role of Deepto TV and ACI for coming forward to give awards on agriculture. “Giving awards in agriculture sector is a great initiative. Everyone should come forward to give such Award. Today, 10 individuals and organisations have been awarded. But through this, millions of farmers, cultivators and entrepreneurs of the country will be more encouraged in agriculture,” he said. 

The speakers said that as the country is now producing surplus food grains, agriculture food processing getting momentum in the country. More investment in the agricultural products processing can reduce food waste and facilitate farmers. 

It can be mentioned that the private satellite television Deepto TV and ACI have jointly taken up such programme for the first time in the country in a bid to encourage and honor individuals and organisations involved in the agriculture. The awards have been given to agri-entrepreneurs, inventors, researchers, farmers and ranchers in 10 categories.