DHAKA, Feb 22, 2024 (BSS) - Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Saber Hossain Chowdhury today said the present government is working sincerely to promote climate-resilient crops in the country.

"Climate-smart crops offer a promising option for ensuring food security in our coastal communities," he said while Dr Pratibha Singh, South Asia Regional Director of the Australian Center for International Agriculture Research (ACIAR), met him at Bangladesh Secretariat here.

Dr Mrinmoy Guha Neogi, Deputy Project Leader, University of Western Australia, was also present on the occasion.

Minister Saber Hossain Chowdhury welcomed ACIAR's collaboration and said the salt tolerant crops can provide much-needed food and income, even in areas where traditional crops fail.

Salt-tolerant wheat and pulses have the potential to make a significant difference for farmers in southern Bangladesh, he said.

Dr. Pratibha Singh said the ACIAR is committed to supporting research and development of climate-resilient crops that can thrive in challenging environments.

She said it is also committed to working with Bangladeshi partners to develop and disseminate these technologies.

The meeting focused on exploring ways to improve food security and livelihood options for farmers of coastal regions affected by salinity intrusion.

The discussion highlighted the need for further research and extension activities to bring salt-tolerant wheat and pulses to farmers' fields.

Later, Uma Bhattacharya, trustee of Swaniti Initiative, a New Delhi-based research Foundation, called on the environment minister at his Secretariat office.