By Poli Rani Pramanik from Tanore, Rajshahi
A farmers’ consultation on safe food production and marketing was held at the Agroecology Learning Centre (ALC) in Gokul Mathura village of Tanore, Rajshahi recently.
Farmers, women cultivators, and development practitioners participated in the dialogue organized by the Green Coalition, to discuss strategies for producing chemical-free food and ensuring fair market access.
During the dialogue participants said that the increasing prevalence of pests and crop diseases due to climate change has increased. In response, many farmers have resorted to excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides, leading to rising production costs, declining soil fertility, loss of beneficial insects, reduced biodiversity, and threats to public health.
BARCIK officials stressed the urgent need to promote low-cost, toxin-free farming methods that protect both farmers’ livelihoods and consumers’ health.
Discussions focused on strengthening farmers’ skills in organic production, overcoming existing barriers in organic marketing, and building an effective supply chain connecting producers and consumers.
Participants emphasized that while demand for safe food is growing, limited supply and market challenges remain significant obstacles.The consultation concluded with a visit to the ALC, reinforcing collective commitment to agroecological practices, sustainable marketing systems, and the expansion of safe food initiatives led by farmers themselves.
