Govt Unveils Master Plan for 'Smart Agriculture' and New Farmer Cards

The government has launched a comprehensive master plan for "Smart Agriculture," aimed at boosting production, diversifying crops, and building resilience against climate change. A central feature of this initiative is the Farmer Card, launched on April 14, which provides digital access to 10 essential services.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman shared these details during a parliamentary session on Wednesday (April 22), responding to a query from Tangail-6 MP Md. Rabiul Awal. The session was presided over by Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed Bir Bikram.

Digital Empowerment via Farmer Cards

The Prime Minister emphasized that agriculture remains the backbone of Bangladesh’s economy, yet faces threats from land depletion and climate shifts. The new Farmer Card is designed to transform the sector into a sustainable, profitable industry.

The 10 services available via the card include:

• Subsidized fertilizers and seeds.

• Low-cost agricultural machinery (tractors, harvesters).

• Easy-access loans and crop insurance.

• Real-time weather and market data via digital platforms.

• Direct access to government incentives and pest control advice.

The Seven Pillars of the Smart Agriculture Plan

1. Modern Irrigation & Mechanization: The government is digging 20,000 kilometers of canals to improve surface water use. Significant subsidies are being provided for reapers and harvesters to modernize harvesting.

2. Crop Zoning: A new system identifies specific crops best suited for local soil and climate, reducing land wastage. Fallow lands, particularly in char areas and the Sylhet region, are being prioritized for cultivation.

3. Diversification: Shifting focus from a rice-centric model to high-value crops including fruits, vegetables, oilseeds, and spices.

4. Financial Safety Nets: In the 2025-26 fiscal year, 7 billion taka was allocated for agricultural rehabilitation. To date, 416 million taka has been distributed to 2.5 million small and marginal farmers.

5. Supply Chain Infrastructure: Plans include building modern cold storage facilities, mini-storages for vegetables, and specialized "Agricultural Export Zones" to facilitate international trade.

6. Research & Innovation: BARI, BRRI, and BINA are tasked with developing climate-resilient, short-duration, and high-yield crop varieties.

7. Climate-Smart Technologies: Promotion of the Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) irrigation method and the ‘Khamari App’ to optimize fertilizer and water usage.