In recent years, discussions around agriculture have often been shaped by narratives that portray modernization as a form of corporate capture. However, evidence suggests a different reality.
Technological transformation in agriculture has not only increased productivity but also reshaped how people engage in farming.
At the time of Bangladesh’s independence, nearly 80% of the population -- out of about 70 million -- was involved in agriculture. Today, that figure has declined to around 35-40%, even as the population has grown to nearly 170-180 million.
Despite limited land, Bangladesh has significantly increased food production through improved seeds, irrigation, fertilizers, mechanization, and information technology. As a result, the country has reduced dependence on food imports and strengthened food security.
However, rising production has also brought new challenges.
The sector faces labour shortages, limited access to inputs and finance for farmers, climate-related risks, and market inefficiencies.
Many farmers remain vulnerable to price volatility and are often dependent on intermediaries, limiting their ability to secure fair returns. Small and landless farmers, in particular, continue to face barriers in accessing essential public services.
In this context, the newly elected government’s decision to introduce the Farmers’ Card on Pahela Baishakhrepresents a timely and forward-looking initiative. As a digital financial tool, the Farmers’ Card aims to provide direct financial assistance and facilitate access to inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and animal feed etc.
It is also expected to integrate services like credit, insurance, market information, and mobile-based advisory support. Importantly, the initiative will help build a comprehensive national database of farmers, enabling more targeted and efficient policy implementation.
Global experience offers encouraging lessons. In India, the PM-KISAN (Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi) program has reached around 100 million small and marginal farmers through direct income support, reducing delays and leakages.
In Kenya, the e-voucher system has improved transparency in the distribution of agricultural inputs while reducing administrative inefficiencies.
These examples show how digital delivery systems can enhance both efficiency and accountability.
Bangladesh is well-positioned to leverage such a model. The rapid expansion of mobile financial services has already transformed financial access at the grassroots level.
From utility payments to Eid-shopping, digital finance is now widely used across the country. This strong foundation can help ensure that the Farmers’ Card system is implemented in a transparent, efficient, and scalable manner.
To fully realize its potential, several key considerations are essential.
A phased rollout of the Farmers’ Card is a positive step. Starting with pilot areas allows for identifying challenges and refining the system before nationwide expansion. Incorporating feedback from farmers and local stakeholders will be critical to long-term success.
The Farmers’ Card is an opportunity to transform Bangladesh’s agricultural sector into a smarter, more inclusive, and data-driven system.
By integrating marginal farmers alongside innovative, semi-commercial, and youth-driven agricultural entrepreneurs, the country can enhance productivity, ensure sustainability, and strengthen food security.
If implemented effectively, this initiative can help build a modern agricultural ecosystem where farmers are at the centre and both producers and consumers benefit.
Md Arif Hossain, Executive Director, Farming Future Bangladesh, Regional Head of Asia, WePlanet International. E-mail: [email protected]
