The World Food Prize Foundation of the United States has honored 39 people from 27 countries worldwide as Top Agricultural Food Pioneers for 2025.
Among them is Bangladesh's leading entrepreneur, politician, Chairman of National Bank, and Chairman and CEO of Lal Teer Seeds Limited, Abdul Auwal Mintu.
He received this award in recognition of his special contributions to the agriculture and food sector for over four decades.
The first person from Bangladesh to receive the World Food Prize was the late Sir Fazle Hasan Abed, founder chairman of Brac.
The World Food Prize Foundation recently announced the names of the award winners.
This prize is called the Nobel Prize of agriculture and food sector.
About these award recipients, it was stated that these distinguished individuals have enriched the world beyond their country's borders through their activities.
They have done special work to build a sustainable and equitable global food system. They have been able to present extraordinary diversity, talent, and determination to the world. They are creating a new future for food.
It is learned that Abdul Auwal Mintu has been making exceptional contributions to the development of Bangladesh's agriculture, particularly in seeds, vegetables, and livestock sectors. He essentially started his business in 1981.
However, in 1994, he established a research laboratory and farm for seed development on just 25 acres of land, which he named Lal Teer Seeds Limited.
That institution is now the 7th top organization among South and Southeast Asian countries under the observation of UN affiliated organizations. He established Bangladesh's only international seed testing laboratory. Apart from Lal Teer, there is no ISTA-certified seed laboratory in Bangladesh.
Besides being an entrepreneur, he has obtained degrees in agricultural economics and various higher subjects related to agriculture. In light of his acquired knowledge and experience, he has spread enlightenment in the country through research. One of his notable research achievements is being the first to uncover the life mystery of buffalo in the country.
Additionally, he was the first to introduce advanced semen for cattle fattening in the country. He is the mastermind behind the tremendous leap in vegetable production in the country. He was the first to privately introduce improved seeds including hybrid seeds in the country.
Regarding this matter, Abdul Auwal Mintu said: "I am trying to work for the betterment of farmers' fortunes. I want to contribute to food security through advanced technology and research in agriculture, food, and nutrition development. I am continuing my work despite various adversities. However, this award will encourage me more in new endeavors in the coming days. I want to continue working for the welfare of the country's people in nutritional security alongside food security."
The World Food Prize Foundation has announced that the award recipients will be formally honored at the organization's 39th anniversary celebration. This award will be presented during the Norman E Borlaug International Dialogue held in Des Moines, Iowa, United States, from October 21-23.
Mashal Hossain, president of the World Food Prize Foundation, said: "The world faces urgent and interconnected crises. These honorees are fearless changemakers who have made impact in the most critical places. These 39 individuals come from various countries and include scientists, farmers, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and humanitarians. They are all working on innovative solutions in various fields related to food and agriculture. The award recipients are working to combat food crises and improve food security in various countries around the world.”