The budget for the fiscal year 2016-17 is likely to earmark Tk 90 billion to provide the farmers as agri-inputs assistance, finance ministry officials said.
The current fiscal budget also earmarked the similar amount for the same purpose which was later cut down by Tk 20 billion in the revised budget, they added.
"The allocation was cut down to Tk 70 billion based on real demand," a senior official of the finance ministry told the FE.
He said the target of fertiliser import for the next fiscal year is set at 4.975 million tonnes, slightly lower from the current fiscal year which may reduce expenditure to some extent.
The official said if fertiliser prices remain unchanged in the international market, the government's expenditure on agri-inputs assistance in the next fiscal year will be around Tk 90 billion.
In a bid to help raise the production in agriculture sector, the government provides the farmers with agro-inputs assistance which includes fertiliser distribution at reduced price and cash incentives for diesel purchase.
To distribute the agri-inputs assistance, the government has distributed cards among the farmers across the country.
Officials said the assistance provided to the farmers as agri-inputs encourages them to raise the cultivation area leading to increased crop production. It also helps government's vision to ensure food for all.
They said the government will continue to support the farmers in various ways to encourage them as agriculture sector plays a pivotal role in accelerating the country's economic growth.
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