Editorial
FAO award for a Bangladeshi
He has done us proud
Abul Kalam Azad, a Bangladeshi agriculturist, wins the prestigious FAO award for excellence in horticulture. He is in the company of four other recipients of the award in pisciculture, agriculture marketing, home gardening and social forestry from Cambodia, Mongolia, Samoa and Thailand.
Azad has always been an example for others for his devotion to and commitment for development of horticulture, a potential golden goose for export from the country. We are heartened by the news and join the nation in congratulating him.
Although our agricultural practices have been traditionally concentrated on cultivation of rice and other food grains, there is, however, an increasing sign of diversification of crops as is evidenced in people taking to pursuits like horticulture.
To that extent, development of horticulture in general is worth noticing. It is an important factor in meeting the overall nutritional requirement of public health. On the other hand, it could also effectively enhance our export earnings in a large number of countries where demands for fruits and flowers are on the increase. Basically, it can employ a large number of people.
This award is also unique on other counts. Azad, once an employee of the Bangladesh Air Force has set the unique example that given the will and trust in one's own self one can achieve excellence in ay branch of human endeavour. It has become a money spinner for him serving as an impetus for those who are looking for a respectable and meaningful livelihood.
We urge the government to give due support in furthering development of horticulture in the country. Banks should provide loans on easy terms. Let us carry forward the good work done by Azad.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel.
Comments