Policy framed to recognise farm sector icons

The agriculture ministry has framed a policy to recognise for the first time contributions of agriculture producers, entrepreneurs and scientists towards the development of the farm sector.

Under the policy, issued at the end of last week, the government would annually recognise 45 persons with an "Agricultural Important Person" (AIP) title for their contributions to agriculture, fisheries, livestock and forests.

The AIP will be bestowed on Bangladeshi farmers, agricultural scientists, entrepreneurs, commercial agro-farm owners, agro-processors and agricultural organisers under five categories.

Of the 45, 10 will be for agricultural innovation, 15 for encouraging establishment of commercial farms and agro-processing industries and 10 for production of exportable agricultural products.

Another five will go to agricultural organisations while five to Bangabandhu National Agriculture Award winners.

The title will be valid for one year. During this time, an AIP will get a  pass enabling entry to Bangladesh Secretariat, be invited to national  ceremonies and get priority in booking air and train tickets alongside  cabins in public hospitals for family members.

"This will inspire people to work for innovation and for development of the agriculture sector. We saw a massive positive change in this sector in the last decade," said Mesbahul Islam, senior secretary to the ministry. The government currently recognises businesspeople with a "Commercially Important Person" (CIP) title recognising their roles in the enhancement of industrialisation and exports.

The policy stated some non-eligibility criteria for the AIP, such as those convicted at court, loan defaulters and anyone farming alien and invasive species.