Joypurhat Dist Potato Farmers & Traders Assoc committee formed to ensure fair cold storage rent, end owners' exploitation
Md. Samiul Haque Sayem, Kalai (Joypurhat)
A committee titled 'Joypurhat Potato Farmers and Traders Association' has been formed in Joypurhat to ensure fair cold storage rents, resist owner harassment under the pretext of electricity bill hikes, and advocate for the diversified use of potatoes. Prominent local potato trader Masudur Rahman was elected President, while Tazmilur Rahman Manik was chosen as General Secretary of the newly established 51-member committee.
The announcement was made unanimously on Friday evening during a crowded discussion meeting held at the Zindarpur Union Parishad Auditorium in Kalai Upazila.
During the meeting, speakers highlighted the association's role and objectives. Prominent speakers included Abdul Hakim Mannan, President of the Bogura District Potato Farmers and Traders Association; General Secretary Rezaul Karim; newly elected Joypurhat District President Masudur Rahman; Senior Vice President Mizanur Rahman; General Secretary Tazmilur Rahman Manik; Organizing Secretary retired Sergeant Jewel Ahmed; Office Secretary Bulbul Ahmed; and Publicity Secretary Golam Mostafa, among others.
Speakers emphasized that despite potato farmers and traders suffering recurring annual losses, cold storage owners continue to unfairly hike rents for their own benefit.
To counter this ongoing cycle of losses, secure reasonable cold storage rents, and promote multi-purpose potato utilization, the speakers stated there is no alternative to a united movement by farmers and traders.
