Commerce, Industries, Textiles and Jute Minister Khandaker Abdul Muktadir on Saturday said creating skilled manpower and equipping the younger generation with technical expertise remain among the government’s top priorities.
The minister made the remarks while visiting the under-construction “BSCIC Food Processing Industrial Estate” project at Akcha in Sadar upazila of Thakurgaon.
He was accompanied by Industries Secretary Obaidur Rahman and Bangladesh Small and Cottage Industries Corporation (BSCIC) Chairman Saiful Islam.
Also present during the visit were Thakurgaon Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate Mohammad Rafiqul Haque, Project Director Hafizur Rahman, officials from the BSCIC district and industrial estate offices, and local industrial entrepreneurs.
Speaking at the site, the minister said the government is working relentlessly to boost the country’s economy through agro-based industrialization. He expressed the hope that the project would play a vital role in expanding agriculture-based industries in the country’s northern region.
Following the inspection, the minister reviewed the ongoing development work and expressed satisfaction with the project’s progress. He instructed the authorities concerned to complete the work within the stipulated timeframe while ensuring quality standards.
The “BSCIC Food Processing Industrial Estate” project is being implemented from July 2021 to June 2026. The initiative involves developing a modern, environmentally friendly, and industry-compliant industrial estate on 50 acres of land at Akcha in Sadar upazila.
Under the project, 251 industrial plots will be developed, creating opportunities for around 230 industrial units. Officials expect the project to generate employment for nearly 25,000 people.
The project is expected to boost food-processing industries based on local agricultural products, including dairy, vegetables, fruits, tea, and other crops, giving new momentum to the agro-based economy in northern Bangladesh. It is also anticipated to improve the preservation, processing, and marketing of farmers’ produce while creating fresh opportunities for local investment and employment.
During the visit, the minister exchanged views with local entrepreneurs and listened to their concerns, expectations, and prospects for industrial expansion.
