Recommendation to eliminate 100% dependence on India for onion

The Standing Committee on the Ministry of Agriculture, during its 13^th meeting, recommended that the ministry take necessary steps to reduce the sole dependence on India for onions.

According to discussions held during the meeting. there is an annual shortage of about 6-7 lakh tonnes of onion over and above local production. Last year, India stopped exporting onions to Bangladesh without prior notice. Steps need to be taken in coordination with the Ministry of Commerce to mitigate unanticipated onion crises.

The ministry has been asked to take necessary steps for research and adoption of alternative plans to deal with the impact of India's export ban on onion and jute seed to Bangladesh.

There was a shortage of potatoes and onions during the Covid-19 period even though most restaurants were closed. Relevant authorities have been asked to investigate the underlying causes.

According to meeting sources, directives were also issued to take appropriate steps for the next Boro paddy season by reaching out to farmers to increase production of improved varieties during the auspicious season and increase the cultivable area.

Matia Chowdhury, the chairman of the standing committee, presided over the meeting.

Committee member Agriculture Minister Abdur Razzak; Muha Imaz Uddin Prang; Md Moslem Uddin; Md Mamunur Rashid Kiran; Anwarul Abedin Khan; Umme Kulsum Smriti; and Hosne Ara attended the meeting among others.