Dear Sir
Bangladesh is an agricultural country. Despite our abundant natural resources, efforts in this sector are not adequate. Our farmers, lacking literacy, struggle with modern agricultural methods. With rising health issues like diabetes and high blood pressure, people now prefer organic vegetables. Increased consumption of organic vegetables can reduce the risk of Type 1 diabetes.
A study by the National Institutes of Health, USA, shows the global organic food market has expanded rapidly in the last 15 years due to concerns over chemically contaminated food and its health risks. Our policy makers have taken no action to address this. Organic food benefits not only health but also economic growth. Bangladesh is blessed with fertile soil and an alluvial climate, ideal for organic cultivation.
Yet, farmers, lacking knowledge on chemical use and pesticides, suffer losses and debt due to unripe crops. This must change. Policy makers should conduct seminars and field visits to educate farmers on organic farming. Advertising organic farming should be implemented to support our farmers.
Afifa Jahan Pushpo
Dept. of Television, Film, and Photography
Dhaka University
