Bangladesh’s growth is powered by agriculture: BB Governor

Agricultural loans are not only boosting farmers' productivity but also driving rural development and improving living standards, said Bangladesh Bank Governor Ahsan H Mansur at a programme today.

"As far as Bangladesh has progressed, it has done so hand in hand with agriculture. The nation's future growth will also be rooted in this sector," he added.

Mansur was speaking as chief guest at the "Agricultural Entrepreneurs' Assembly and Skills Development Training", organised by United Commercial Bank PLC (UCB) in Cox's Bazar. Nearly 300 agricultural entrepreneurs from the district attended the daylong event.

"Agriculture is more than a livelihood; it is the backbone of our economy and the nation's food security. Supporting agricultural entrepreneurs and providing easy access to loans is our top priority," he said.

"We aim to ensure that loans reach genuine farmers, banking services are more accessible, and farmers benefit fully from digital banking."

He cautioned that insufficient support could hamper both production and market systems.

"Adequate assistance and loan facilities for agricultural entrepreneurs are vital to strengthening the rural economy," he stressed.

Sharif Zahir, chairman of UCB, said, "We are committed to sustainable agricultural development and empowering entrepreneurs for the country's prosperity. Training programmes like this will enhance their financial capacity."

Mohammad Mamdudur Rashid, managing director and CEO of UCB, added: "Our responsibility goes beyond disbursing loans. We aim to make entrepreneurs self-reliant, successful, and contributors to the national economy through skills development."

Md Mokbul Hossain, executive director of Bangladesh Bank Chattogram Office; Bimal Kumar Pramanik, deputy director of the Department of Agricultural Extension; AM Khalekuzzaman, district livestock officer; Md Nazmul Huda, district fisheries officer; and Rezaul Karim Siddique, coordinator of the Bhorosar Notun Janala project and presenter of BTV's Mati O Manush, were also present.