PM Tarique to launch 'Farmer Card' scheme on Pohela Boishakh

The government says the scheme will initially cover 22 million farmers

The government has decided to roll out the Farmer Card programme on Pohela Boishakh, with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman set to formally inaugurate the scheme as part of another election pledge.

The decision was made at a meeting on the Farmer Card programme held on Sunday, according to Tarique's Additional Press Secretary Atiqur Rahman.

Ahead of the 13th national election, the BNP had pledged in its manifesto to introduce a “Family Card” with a monthly allowance aimed at women’s empowerment, and a “Farmer Card” for marginal farmers.

Prime Minister Tarique formally launched the Family Card programme on Mar 10 at the T&T playground beside Korail slum in Banani.

Speaking on Saturday, Prof Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir, the prime minister’s advisor on finance and planning, said the cards would initially be distributed to 22 million farmers on a pilot basis.

Under the programme, marginal and vulnerable farmers are expected to receive special benefits similar to those offered through the Family Card scheme.

The card will be used to deliver subsidies, fertiliser, seeds and pesticides directly to farmers.

Initially, the government is planning to provide around Tk 2,500 in subsidy to eligible landless, marginal and small farmers.