By Poli Rani Pramanik from Rajshahi
An advocacy meeting demanding the ban of hazardous and prohibited chemical pesticides was held in Rajshahi under the theme: “Safe food is our right – Youth must rise against the destruction of food sovereignty.” The meeting took place recently at the BARCIK Rajshahi Regional Resource Center, organized by Barendra Youth Forum, Green Coalition, and BARCIK.
In the meeting law and environmental researcher and anthropologist Md. Shahidul Islam, regional coordinator of BARCIK’s Barendra region, said that the excessive use of chemical pesticides in agriculture has become a serious threat to human health and the environment. These toxic substances enter the human body through food, increasing the risk of diseases such as cancer while also damaging soil, water, and biodiversity.
He further said that the government must take strict measures to stop the use and marketing of banned pesticides. At the same time, farmers should be encouraged to adopt organic and environmentally friendly farming practices, and public awareness about safe food should be increased.
Speakers at the event also stated that although agricultural production and income have increased, the widespread use of chemicals has led to rising health problems and medical expenses. They stressed that collective action is necessary to ensure safe food and protect food sovereignty.
Among the discussants included Advocate Ishita Yasmin, members of the Barendra Youth Forum, including President Atikur Rahman Atik, General Secretary Poly Rani, and other representatives from civil society, farmers, youth groups, writers, teachers, journalists, and local activists.
