By Md. Nazrul Islam, from Manikganj

A discussion meeting on agroecology and biodiversity conservation was held in Manikganj under the theme “Protect Diversity, Build a Green Earth.” The event was presided over by Md. Abdul Khaleq, an agriculturist and convener of the District Green Solidarity, while Bimal Chandra Roy, the regional coordinator of BARCIK, moderated the session.

The chief guest, Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Mohammad Atikul Mamun, and the special guest, Sheikh Mezbah-ul-Saberin, Upazila Executive Officer of Manikganj Sadar, addressed the event. The keynote speaker, Dr. Robiah Noor Ahmed, Deputy Director of the Department of Agricultural Extension, highlighted the significance of agroecology.

Participants in the discussion included Md. Akhtaruzzaman, Executive Engineer of the Water Development Board; Md. Monir Hossain, Assistant Director of BADC Seeds; journalist Jahangir Alam Biswas, convener of the Manikganj Press Club; as well as farmers from riverbank areas and environmental activists.

Speakers emphasized the urgent need to expand agroecological practices to ensure an environmentally friendly livelihood. They called for effective measures to prevent river, canal, and wetland encroachment and pollution and stressed the importance of sustainable agriculture and environmental conservation to create a livable world for future generations.