A seminar on “Sustainability of Healthy Soil for Food Security in Bangladesh,” organised by the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC) and supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, was held at the BARC Auditorium, Farmgate, Dhaka, on 5 December to mark the 10th World Soil Day.
Soil degradation impacts over one-third of the Earth’s land area, jeopardising the livelihoods of millions of farmers and threatening global food production systems. The decline in soil quality poses challenges to hunger and poverty alleviation efforts, while healthy soils can sequester carbon, mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, and contribute to combating climate change, said a press release.
The event was graced by Lt. Gen. Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury (Retd.), adviser to the Ministry of Agriculture, and Dr Jiaoqun Shi, FAO Representative in Bangladesh. Dr. Mohammad Emdad Ullah Mian, Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, presided over the programme.
This year’s theme, “Measure, Monitor, Manage,” underscores the need for accurate soil data and monitoring to make informed soil management decisions. Experts highlighted the importance of understanding soil properties to apply appropriate agricultural practices that enhance soil health and, consequently, food security.
Lt. Gen. Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury (Retd.) remarked, “World Soil Day reminds us that everyone—from individuals to governments—must play a role in caring for our soils. This year’s theme calls for cross-sector collaboration to improve soil conservation and ensure future generations inherit sustainable soils.”
Dr Jiaoqun Shi reaffirmed FAO’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh in transforming its agriculture sector. He stated, “Healthy soils are critical for food production, climate resilience, and planetary well-being. By investing in soil data and monitoring systems, Bangladesh can safeguard its soils while building an inclusive and sustainable agri-food system.”
The keynote presentation, delivered by Prof. Dr M Jahiruddin (Retired) from the Department of Soil Science at Bangladesh Agricultural University, emphasised strengthening agricultural policies and implementing effective farmer-extension-research interfaces to manage soil fertility and nutrients. He proposed strategies to combat soil health degradation and restore resources to sustainable levels.
