Even though our agriculture remains the foundation on which our economy has grown, with around 62 million -- or a whopping 40% of the entire workforce -- employed in the sector, the sector’s contribution to overall GDP remains a mere 14%.
That is not to say the industry is not a successful one: Bangladesh’s export earnings from the agriculture and agro-processing industry have seen steady increments year after year.
But, considering the number of people involved, the agricultural industry has immense potential to contribute on a larger scale to the economy, and, as such, governmental policies which take advantage of this situation are essential on Bangladesh’s journey towards middle-income status.
Currently, a lack of modern technology and trained human capital has held our agricultural sector back from reaching its full potential, and it is crucial that the industry is enhanced by modern technology and research, which would provide a much-needed boost.
But such modernization would mean little if we do not know how to use the technological innovations it provides to the fullest extent -- in this regard, it is crucial that the vast number of people involved in agriculture are trained and are updated on newer means of production.
This can only happen if the government puts its weight behind the industry, incentivizing the use of new technologies, such as with rebates or funding, and putting policies in place which encourage stakeholders to adapt to this modern world.
We have never been as close to the dream of Digital Bangladesh as we are now, with technological improvements and innovations perceived in almost every aspect of our daily existence, from internet services to mobile banking.
There is no reason, then, for Bangladesh’s agriculture to fall behind. By adapting to this changing world, and infusing modern technology in the manufacturing process, the agricultural sector can propel Bangladesh’s economy to newer heights.
