Prioritise research over political debate: Fakhrul

BOGURA, July 25: Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Saturday called for greater emphasis on research, innovation and productive activities instead of political debate, saying scientific advancements must directly benefit farmers and strengthen Bangladesh's rural economy.

Speaking as the chief guest at the inauguration of the 36th Annual Planning Conference-2026 at the Rural Development Academy (RDA) in Bogura, the minister said research should not remain confined to laboratories but be translated into practical technologies that increase agricultural productivity and improve farmers' incomes.

Before inaugurating the conference, he visited an exhibition of green technologies developed by the academy and planted a latkan sapling on the RDA campus.

Addressing researchers, policymakers and development practitioners, Mirza Fakhrul said the country often paid more attention to politics than to the achievements of scientists and researchers, despite their significant contributions to agriculture, food security and rural development.

"Research and innovation are the driving forces of sustainable development. The innovations developed by our researchers have the potential to transform agriculture and improve the livelihoods of millions of rural people," he said.

The minister urged the media to give greater coverage to research-based innovations so that modern technologies could reach farmers more quickly.

He said Bangladesh's biggest agricultural challenge was no longer increasing production but ensuring fair prices for farm produce. 

Stressing the need to reduce post-harvest losses, he called for expanding cold storage facilities, improving preservation systems and modernising agricultural marketing.

He also encouraged greater private-sector investment in storage, processing and marketing.

Highlighting the role of young people, the minister urged them to become entrepreneurs rather than relying solely on conventional jobs, saying agriculture-based enterprises could create employment while boosting rural incomes.

The conference was chaired by Md Shawkat Rashid Chowdhury, Secretary of the Rural Development and Cooperatives Division.

Among the special guests were Golam Mohammad Siraj MP, Kazi Rafiqul Islam MP and Md Ehsanul Haque, Secretary of the Ministry of Public Administration, along with senior officials of the Rural Development Academy.