Agriculture Minister Mohammad Aminur Rashid announced that the government will distribute farmer cards without any political consideration. The initiative targets 22.7 million marginal farmers, ensuring that all eligible recipients will receive cards in phases. He made the statement on Sunday at a press conference held at the Press Information Department (PID) auditorium in Dhaka, marking the launch of the farmer card distribution program.

According to the minister, the government aims to modernize Bangladesh’s agriculture sector through a technology-driven and farmer-centered system. The farmer card will serve as a universal digital identity for each farmer, enabling access to banking and agricultural services. Accounts have already been opened through Sonali Bank, and preparations for distribution are complete. As of April 11, data from 22,065 farmers have been collected, including 20,671 marginal and small farmers, 1,303 medium farmers, and 91 large farmers.

In the pre-pilot phase, landless, marginal, and small farmers will receive annual direct cash assistance of 2,500 taka. The card will also provide access to fertilizers, seeds, irrigation, and agricultural loans at fair prices and easy terms.