BM Report:
The Government of Bangladesh has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to safeguarding two-crop land across the country to ensure long-term food security. This critical stance was underscored by Land Secretary Md. Khalilur Rahman during his address at a workshop titled “Climate Change and Climate Change Risks in Bangladesh and Global Perspective” held at the Ministry of Land in the Secretariat on Thursday.
Addressing a gathering of Ministry of Land officials, Secretary Rahman emphasized the seriousness with which the government is tackling land management issues complicated by climate change. He highlighted the ongoing initiatives, including:
Land zoning project: This project aims to create a digital, Mouza-based zoning map for the entire nation, offering comprehensive land-use information.
Bangladesh Digital Survey program: This program, funded and supported technically by Korea under the EDLMS project, is currently implementing digital land surveying in six pilot areas.
Modern land management services: The Ministry of Land is actively striving to modernize its services through technological advancements, ensuring improved efficiency and accuracy.
Secretary Rahman further lauded Bangladesh’s recent recognition at the ongoing climate change conference (COP28) in Dubai. The Global Center on Adaptation Award bestowed upon the nation acknowledges the government’s commendable efforts in combating climate change.
He reiterated the existing policy decision to avoid development projects on three-crop land, solidifying the government’s commitment to preserving agricultural land and ensuring national food security.
The workshop also featured insightful presentations by the Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Land Md. Abbas Uddin and Deputy Secretary A.T.M Azharul Islam. Moderated by Deputy Secretary Ishrat Farzana, the session delved into various aspects of climate change, including its causes, risks, impacts, and recommended mitigation strategies. Participants actively engaged in discussions regarding climate-related issues and explored potential solutions.
Additional Initiatives: Drafting Land Ownership and Use Act, 2023: This proposed legislation aims to protect agricultural land, restrict non-agricultural land use, safeguard food security, and mitigate the adverse effects of climate change.
Bangladesh Delta Plan-2100: This long-term national strategy addresses flood control, river erosion and management, urban and rural water supply, waste management, and drainage systems, aiming to ensure a sustainable future for Bangladesh.
The Government of Bangladesh’s unwavering commitment to protecting two-crop land and implementing proactive measures to address climate change reflects its dedication to ensuring the nation’s long-term food security and overall well-being. These initiatives demonstrate a proactive approach towards building a resilient and sustainable future for the country.
