By Rukhsana Rumi from Netrakona
On the occasion of World Health Day, a village discussion meeting was organized recently under the slogan “Safe Food, Healthy Life.” With the support of BARCIK, members of the Organic Farming Group from Kailati Union of Netrokona Sadar Upazila arranged the event at the organic farm of Golam Mostafa Madhu. A total of 21 participants attended the discussion, including organic farmers, local seed preservers, vegetable growers, family-based farmers, and organic agriculture entrepreneurs.
The chief guest was former Upazila Education Officer and rooftop gardening entrepreneur Mr. Md. Mofazzal Hossain. Other distinguished participants included former agriculture officer Ajit Pal; farmers Abdul Hai, Tara Mia, and Khairul Islam; women farmers Lutfa, Zakia Begum, and Halema; environmental activist Abdul Hamid Kabiraj; and veteran farmer Siddikur Rahman, among others.
The discussion featured speakers such as vermicompost researcher and beekeeper-teacher Golam Mostafa Madhu, and farmer Sujon Mia. The session was chaired by farmer Majnu Mia.
The Speakers of the event emphasized that the increasing use of chemical substances in agricultural production poses a serious threat to both public health and the environment. Nowadays, various chemicals are routinely applied in vegetable farming.
Md. Mofazzal Hossain said, “Excessive and indiscriminate use of pesticides is placing public health at high risk and increasing pressure on the healthcare system. Many people are suffering due to chemically contaminated food. To ensure safe food production, marketing, and public health protection, existing laws must be properly enforced, including the Safe Food Act 2013 and the Formalin Control Act 2015. Non-communicable diseases are increasing day by day.”
At the end of the program, each participating farmer received saplings of mint, lettuce, and neem from the organic farm of Golam Mostafa Madhu.
