BM Desk : The United States’ World Food Prize Foundation has named 39 individuals from 27 nations as Top Agri Food Pioneers for 2025. On the list is Abdul Awal Mintu, the leading politician, businessman, and chairman of the National Bank as well as the chairman and chief executive officer of Lal Teer Seeds Limited. In honor of his exceptional contributions to the food and agriculture industries during the previous forty years, he was given this medal. BRAC’s founding chairman, the late Sir Fazle Hasan Abed, was the first person from Bangladesh to win the World Food Prize.
The names of the award winners were just revealed by the World Food Prize Foundation. This honor is known as the Nobel Prize in Food and Agriculture. Regarding these winners, it is noted that their effort has enhanced the globe beyond their nation’s boundaries. They have worked particularly hard to create a fair and sustainable global food system. They have been able to show the world their remarkable talent, diversity, and tenacity. They are building a new food future.
Abdul Awal Mintu is recognized for his significant contributions to the advancement of agriculture in Bangladesh, particularly in the areas of seeds, vegetables, and livestock. He began his entrepreneurial journey in 1981. In 1994, he established a research laboratory and farm dedicated to seed development on a modest 25 acres, naming it Lal Teer Seeds Limited. Today, this institution ranks as the 7th leading organization among South and Southeast Asian nations, under the guidance of a United Nations partner organization. He has also set up the only international seed testing laboratory in Bangladesh, with no other ISTA-certified seed laboratory existing in the country.
In addition to his entrepreneurial endeavors, Mintu holds degrees in agricultural economics and advanced agricultural studies. He has illuminated the agricultural landscape of Bangladesh through his research, leveraging his knowledge and experience. Notably, he was the first to uncover the mysteries surrounding buffalo life in the country. Furthermore, he introduced the first improved semen for fattening cows and played a pivotal role in enhancing vegetable production. He was also the pioneer in privately introducing improved seeds, including hybrid varieties, in Bangladesh.
Regarding his work, Abdul Awal Mintu stated, “I am striving to improve the lives of farmers. My goal is to enhance food security through innovative technology and research in agriculture, food, and nutrition. I continue my efforts despite facing numerous challenges. This award will motivate me to pursue new initiatives in the future. I am committed to working for the welfare of the people in our country, focusing on both food and nutrition security.”
The World Food Prize Foundation announced that the laureates will be officially recognized during the 39th anniversary celebration of the organization. The awards will be presented at the Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue, scheduled to take place in Des Moines, Iowa, USA, from October 21-23, 2025.
“The globe is experiencing serious and interconnected issues,” stated Mashal Hossain, president of the globe Food Prize Foundation. These honorees are bold innovators who are changing the world where it counts most. The 39 people are scientists, farmers, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and humanitarians from a range of nations. All of them are developing creative solutions in many facets of agriculture and food. In nations all throughout the world, the honorees are tackling food problems and enhancing food security.
