Local Government, Rural Development and Co-operatives (LGRD) Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has called for prioritising research, innovation, and productive initiatives over political debates.

Speaking as the chief guest at the inauguration of the 36th Annual Planning Conference-2026 at the Rural Development Academy (RDA) in Bogura on Saturday, the minister stressed the need to translate research findings into field-level applications to boost farmers’ incomes and strengthen the rural economy, said a press release.

Prior to the event, the minister toured an exhibition showcasing green technologies developed by the RDA and planted a Lotkon (Burmese grapes) sapling on the academy grounds.

In his address, Fakhrul observed that while political discussion often dominates the national discourse, achievements in scientific research and technical innovation rarely receive the attention they deserve, despite their crucial role in improving agricultural productivity.

He urged the media to play an active role in highlighting research breakthroughs.

Addressing key agricultural challenges, the minister noted that securing fair prices for farm produce remains a bigger concern for farmers than production itself. He advocated for expanded research into cold storage facilities, preservation methods, and marketing infrastructure, alongside increased private sector investment in agri-logistics.

Encouraging the youth to embrace entrepreneurship, he urged young people to pursue ventures in agri-business, preservation, and supply chain management rather than focusing solely on traditional employment. Such initiatives, he noted, would generate jobs while providing direct financial benefits to farmers.

The conference was chaired by Rural Development and Co-operatives Division Secretary Md Showkat Rashid Chowdhury. Special guests included members of parliament Golam Mohammad Siraj (Bogura-5) and Kazi Rafiqul Islam (Bogura-1), Public Administration Secretary Md Ehsanul Hoque, along with other senior government officials.