NOAGAON, Mar 16: Land Minister Mizanur Rahman Minu has credited Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman with transforming Bangladesh from a famine-prone country into a 'grain-rich' nation through canal excavation programmes, making the country self-sufficient in food.
He highlighted that Noagaon holds the top position in rice production, emphasising the need for domestic efforts to meet the growing food demand of expanding urban population.
"The Prime Minister has included me in her team to serve you," the minister said, addressing a gathering in Niamatpur Upazila. "I understand that among 100 people here, all have complaints regarding land issues. I may not speak openly about everything, but I will act for the people. I am committed to working honestly for the public."
The remarks came after the inauguration of a 1,200-metre canal excavation project along Belgapur to Juluppara on the Bil Lata Canal in Niamatpur on Monday at noon. The event was followed by a discussion session attended by local officials and political leaders.
Minister Minu stressed that the Land Ministry is committed to eliminating corruption and irregularities, and warned that those involved in malpractice would face action. "We are here to serve you. Your directions define our responsibility. Our leader, the Prime Minister, does not follow protocol or travel with flags; she focuses only on official work. Our administrators monitor progress from a distance. We do not need extra security to catch criminals; we stay connected with the people and the soil," he added.
The meeting was chaired by Noagaon-1 MP Mostafizur Rahman. Other speakers included DC Mohammad Saiful Islam, SP Mohammad Tariqul Islam, District Council Administrator and BNP District President Abu Bakar Siddiq Nannu, Noagaon-5 MP Zahidul Islam Dhallu, Noagaon-3 MP Fazle Huda Babul, and Noagaon-4 MP Ikramul Bari Tipu, among others.
The canal excavation programme aims to improve irrigation, enhance local agriculture, and ensure better water management in the region, continuing the legacy of canal-based agricultural development initiated during Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman's administration.
