To reduce onion wastage, increase farmers' profits, and keep market supply normal outside the season, a program to distribute 380 airflow machines has been inaugurated in Durgapur Upazila of the district.
Under the government incentive program, the machines will be distributed to onion farmers in the upazila in several phases.
Professor Nazrul Islam, MP, was present as the chief guest at the inaugural ceremony of this program held on Saturday.
Durgapur Upazila Nirbahi Officer Umme Habiba Farzana presided over the event.
In his speech as the chief guest, Professor Nazrul Islam said that to ensure a fair price for the farmers' produce, it is not enough to just increase production; the preservation system must also be improved.
If the use of modern technology like airflow machines is increased, losses in onion preservation will be reduced. This will benefit both farmers and consumers.
Upazila Nirbahi Officer Umme Habiba Farzana said if proper preservation of farmers' produce can be ensured, they will not be forced to sell onions at low prices during the season.
The use of modern preservation technology with government support will play an important role in increasing farmers' income as well as keeping the supply of onions normal in the market.
Emphasis must also be given to ensuring that the real onion farmers get the benefits of this initiative.
Upazila Agriculture Officer Sahana Parveen Laboni said 380 airflow machines will be distributed in Durgapur this year. These machines will be delivered to onion farmers in phases.
The main goal of this program is to reduce onion wastage through the use of modern preservation technology, increase farmers' profits, and keep market supply normal outside the season.
Concerned persons from the agriculture department said that although onion production is sufficient in the country, supply decreases after the season due to a lack of modern preservation systems.
As a result, the price of onions increases in the market in the off-season.
To tackle this situation, farmers are being encouraged to preserve onions using airflow technology.
Officials of the agriculture department, local public representatives and distinguished persons were present at the event.