Fisheries, Livestock, Agriculture and Food Minister Mohammad Aminur Rashid stated that ensuring the welfare of marginal farmers is one of the main election commitments of the current government. Speaking on Friday at a meeting with officials from the fisheries, livestock, agriculture and food departments at Cumilla Circuit House, he said improving the livelihoods of the majority population is possible through this commitment.

The minister emphasized that the government gives top priority to agricultural development since about 70 percent of the population is directly or indirectly involved in agriculture. He urged field-level officers to raise awareness among farmers about soil health, pH levels, fertilizer efficiency and modern technology. He noted that maintaining proper soil pH can reduce fertilizer use and production costs. Rashid also highlighted efforts to integrate agriculture, food management, fisheries and livestock sectors under a coordinated structure to address previous gaps.

He added that establishing the Cumilla division and stopping illegal soil extraction from the Gomti River are among his priorities, announcing a zero-tolerance policy on illegal soil cutting and calling for strict administrative enforcement.