Enhancing access to agriculture in Bangladesh with the goal of leaving no one behind Author and Researcher: Dr. M. Harun-ur-rashid babu Executive Director Bangladesh Protibandhi Shahojogita Sanghstha (BPSS) Chairman Bangladesh blind cricket council 564 Shewrapara, Mirpur, Dhaka Enhancing access to agriculture in Bangladesh with the goal of leaving no one behind involves addressing various challenges and leveraging opportunities to ensure inclusivity and sustainability. Bangladesh is a deltaic riverine land derived during the emerge of Himalaya mountains formed with alluvial soil as well as the world’s longest unbroken sea-beach of Cox’s Bazar and world heritage the largest mangrove forest the Sundorbans, a sea- sided vast plain land except the hill tracks of Chittagong and some part of Sylhet. From time ancient, its inhabitants are nourished and reared up with the blessings of nature through agricultural abundance. Agriculture, here, the sole profession of the major and almost direct and indirect adoption of the whole Population, as it were, men and merchandizes here are made of agriculture. Once upon a time, from time immemorial, men groups or societies were not connected like now-a-days Where “Survival of fittest” for human existence. But, at present, here’s a diametrically opposite trenda race among the human races for classress and dominance. A matter of amusement is that, this implicit illness has become very keen in the name of government or non-government services and surveillance. For an example, I will say just a one of my Research Papers for this very seminar. _ Though it is severe, it has become a body- endured accustomed matter is that pre-flood water enter in the north-eastern areas of Bangladesh. Surrounded with Haors (wet lands) and crops loss, specially paddy as a whole. As a result, a well-to-do farmer becomes a pauper, almost a beggar. Appetite bites-So nothing to hide to survive. Here are some perspectives to consider:

1. Including persons with disabilities in agriculture: including persons with disabilities involves creating inclusive policies, providing accessible infrastructure and technology, offering training and support, and fostering a supportive environment. This ensures that everyone can participate fully in agricultural activities, contributing to sustainable development and leaving no one behind.
2. *Gender Inclusivity*: Women play a significant role in agriculture in Bangladesh, yet they often face barriers such as limited access to land, credit, and extension services. Initiatives should focus on empowering women farmers by providing them with equal access to resources, training, and technology. This can be achieved through targeted policies, awareness campaigns, and capacity-building programs.
3. *Youth Engagement*: Encouraging youth participation in agriculture is crucial for the sector's future. Efforts should be made to attract young people by promoting modern farming techniques, entrepreneurship opportunities, and access to finance. Training programs, mentorship schemes, and incentives for innovative farming practices can help in this regard.
4. *Smallholder Farmers Support*: Smallholder farmers constitute a significant portion of the agricultural workforce in Bangladesh. Enhancing their access to markets, finance, and technology can improve their livelihoods and productivity. This can be achieved through the establishment of farmer cooperatives, microfinance schemes, and the dissemination of relevant information through digital platforms.
5. *Technology Adoption*: Embracing technological advancements such as precision agriculture, climate- smart practices, and digital tools can improve efficiency and resilience in agriculture. However, ensuring that these technologies are accessible and affordable to all farmers, including those in remote areas, is essential. Public-private partnerships and government subsidies can facilitate the adoption of technology among smallholder farmers.
6. *Infrastructure Development*: Improving rural infrastructure such as roads, irrigation systems, and storage facilities is crucial for reducing post-harvest losses and improving market access. Investments in infrastructure should prioritize areas with high concentrations of smallholder farmers to ensure equitable development across regions.
7. *Climate Resilience*: Bangladesh is highly vulnerable to climate change, which poses significant challenges to agricultural productivity and food security. Promoting climate-resilient farming practices, such as crop diversification, water management techniques, and resilient seed varieties.
8. *Policy Support*: Enabling policy environments are essential for development People with disabilities are also an integral part of our society and no development is possible without involving them. Agriculture is no different.

People with disabilities are also an integral part of our society and no development is possible without involving them. Agriculture is no exception.