Dhaka, Dec 07 (V7N)-Agriculture Advisor Lieutenant General Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury has stated that the recent 40-taka increase in onion prices is due to market manipulation, and those responsible need to be identified. He clarified that there is currently no onion crisis and added that fertilizer stocks are sufficient.

Speaking to reporters at the Secretariat on Sunday, he said, "The decision to import onions has been taken to stabilize the market. If the price reaches 70 taka, it benefits everyone. If traders collude to control the market, agriculture officials will face consequences. The Ministry of Commerce will investigate any manipulation."

The advisor also provided updates on other agricultural matters:

  • Aman paddy harvest: 70 percent completed with good yields.
  • Vegetable prices: Currently tolerable and expected to decline further, but not so much as to harm farmers.
  • Potato farming: Farmers suffered losses this season; subsidies are planned. Local potato varieties cannot yet be exported due to underdevelopment.

He also called for reducing unnecessary fertilizer use, noting its overuse in fish farming and other areas. On personnel matters, he mentioned that OCs and SPs have been transferred through a lottery system, and agricultural officers will follow the same system. So far, two officers have been transferred, highlighting that many prefer placements in areas with better earning potential.

END/SMA/AJ