NCTB to correct controversial ICT textbook illustration without extra government expenditure.
Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries & Livestock Mohammad Amin Ur Rashid today said gamma irradiation technology has been introduced to facilitate the export of agricultural products and meet international standards.
The minister made the remarks while inaugurating a newly constructed Gamma Irradiation Center at the regional research station of the Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture (BINA) here as the chief guest.
The minister noted that this technology will play an effective role in extending the shelf life of agricultural products, free them from pathogens and help maintain their quality. This will make the country’s agricultural products more competitive in the international market.
He highlighted that the majority of country's population is engaged in agriculture.
The present government is working to establish agricultural products as one of the nation's primary exports. Mangoes from various regions including Rajshahi and Chapainawabganj, are of high quality.
By using gamma irradiation technology, the shelf life of these mangoes can be improved and pathogens can be eliminated, this in turn, will increase the volume of mango exports to the international market.
He further mentioned that a delegation from China recently expressed interest in importing Bangladeshi mangoes. Additionally, jackfruit is in high demand internationally and possesses significant nutritional value. However, it is essential to maintain international standards when exporting such products.
The Gamma Irradiation Center is a timely initiative toward achieving this goal, he added.
The minister stated that there are plans to establish similar centers in other key districts across the country to prevent wastage of agricultural products and to safeguard the goods produced by farmers. While the initial costs may be relatively high, the focus must be on enhancing the operational efficiency of these centers in line with technological advancements, as well as developing a skilled technical team.
He added, "The national economy will become strong only when the agricultural economy is robust." "The Gamma Irradiation Center will support the agricultural sector, contributing to the advancement of the nation's economy."
The event was presided over by Dr. Sarful Haque Bhuiyan, Director General of the BINA where lawmaker from Gazipur-3 constituency Dr S M Rafiqul Islam, Agriculture Secretary Md Selim Khan and representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations in Bangladesh Dr. Xiaokun Shi were also present.
Notably, this facility which utilizes nuclear technology for the treatment of agricultural products was established at a cost of Taka 890 million.
