NOW that estimates are coming about the extent of crop damage by the two floods and cyclone, all concerned should take note of the same to beef up arrangements for food security. According to the president of Bangladesh Economic Association, natural disasters cost the country at least 1.8 million tonnes in damaged crops this year. If such estimates are factual, then we have reasons to be concerned over food security. Here early steps for the supplies in time can help avert any major problem. This is otherwise a difficult time for arrangements of such supplies from the global market this year in view of the tight availability situation and high prices of food grains. The government as well as the private importers should do the needful so that the anticipated shortfall under the changed circumstances can be met as far as possible through imports in time. The international donor community can also be approached by the government to make emergency supplies available, if the situation demands it.
Besides supplies, the government has to ensure access to food to the poor in the disaster-hit areas. This 'access' is very much important for food security in operational terms. The decision of the government to expand the vulnerable group feeding (VGF) programme in the south western coastal areas and other parts of the country that were affected by the natural disasters this year, is welcome for the purpose. All arrangements should be made for proper administration of this expanded VGF programme.
Meanwhile, farmers will need all supports by the government for ensuring the availability of key agricultural inputs in time for the agricultural rehabilitation and recovery programme during the Boro season. Increased domestic production of food crops holds the key to meeting the country's food security needs in a viable manner.
Abdul Hameed
Dhanmondi
Dhaka.
Food security needs
FE Team | Published: November 26, 2007 00:00:00 | Updated: February 01, 2018 00:00:00
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