The government is set to introduce a “Farmer Card” for farmers across the country. However, it will initially be launched as a pilot project rather than on a nationwide scale.

Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan disclosed this to journalists at the Secretariat on Monday.

He said that a high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is currently underway to discuss the Farmer Card initiative. “Providing a Farmer Card was one of our electoral commitments. To fulfill that promise, the Honorable Chief Adviser is holding the first meeting today. Insha’Allah, we will launch the Farmer Card pilot project as soon as possible, similar to the Family Card,” he said.

Responding to a question about when distribution might begin, he stated that no specific timeline can be confirmed at this moment due to various preparatory requirements. However, the PM has directed that the initiative be implemented as quickly as possible, and all relevant ministries are working toward that goal.

The minister added that through this card, farmers will receive all types of production-related benefits. Agricultural knowledge and modern machinery will be made more accessible. Support will be provided for fertilizers, pesticides, seeds, and other agricultural inputs. Farmers will also receive smart updates on market conditions, production status, and weather forecasts. With accurate information, they will be able to make better planning decisions.

To prevent interference by influential groups or middlemen, the government is emphasizing smart card technology. Swapan said the move toward a smart Farmer Card is aimed at preventing leakage or intermediary exploitation. “Just as a SIM card user can directly access banking or other services, this card will create direct communication between farmers and the state. As a result, farmers will receive benefits directly, and the state will be able to understand their problems firsthand,” he explained.

According to official statistics, the government aims to bring all farmers in the country under this program. However, it will begin with a pilot project in a specific region or with a limited number of beneficiaries, and will later be expanded nationwide in phases.