Tarique calls for agro-industrial development to elevate farmers’ livelihoods

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Saturday emphasised that strengthening agro-based industries and promoting the export of local agricultural products could significantly improve farmers’ livelihoods in Dinajpur.

Addressing a large election rally at Birampur Government College Ground in the district, Tarique outlined plans to establish a dedicated agro-industrial institution in the district aimed at processing and marketing traditional crops, including the region’s renowned Katari Bhog rice and litchi, for international markets.

“By supporting agro-based industries, we can ensure fair prices for farmers, generate employment for local youth, and increase foreign exchange earnings,” he said.

He stressed that Dinajpur’s economy, heavily reliant on agriculture, could be transformed with targeted industrial support and value-added initiatives.

Tarique framed the development of agro-industries as a strategic tool for rural empowerment. By linking production to export markets, he said, smallholder farmers could escape volatile local pricing and access consistent income streams.

The BNP chairman also highlighted the importance of modern infrastructure, technical training, and market access in facilitating agricultural exports.

“Investment in processing facilities, cold storage, and supply chain logistics will allow farmers’ produce to reach global markets without loss or delay,” he noted.

As part of his ongoing campaign in northern Bangladesh, Tarique is visiting Thakurgaon, Nilphamari and Dinajpur, advocating for policies that integrate agriculture, industry and employment generation.

The rally at Birampur, presided over by Dinajpur District BNP President Mofazzal Hossain Dulal, also featured speeches from local BNP candidates, including Syed Jahangir Hossain, Akhtaruzzaman Mia, Barrister Kamruzzaman and AZM Zahid Hossain.

Tarique concluded by urging voters to support BNP’s “Sheaf of Paddy” symbol, emphasising that investment in agro-industries is central to his vision for a prosperous, self-reliant northern Bangladesh.