State Minister for Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Mir Shahe Alam said today that the incumbent government had decided to drill 52 new gas wells to address the country's energy crisis.

“The government is going to drill 52 new wells to overcome the energy crisis caused by a lack of new drilling over the past 20 years,” he said.

“There is good news about new gas discoveries in the Bhola, Noakhali and Titas gas fields,” he added.

The state minister made the remarks after inaugurating the 14th International Agricultural Technology Fair-2026 at the International Convention City Bashundhara in the capital.

He said the government was also working to modernise agriculture, increase productivity and ensure food security through technology-driven and sustainable farming.

Around 250 organisations from 12 countries are participating in the fair, showcasing agricultural technologies and innovations at 53 stalls. The exhibition will continue until November 7.

Mir Shahe Alam said underground pipeline-based irrigation systems, supported by organisations such as the Barind Multipurpose Development Authority and the Rural Development Academy (RDA), had helped save 40 percent of water used in the agricultural sector.

He stressed the need for the proper use of fertilisers, greater reliance on organic fertilisers and the establishment of factories to produce starch powder from surplus potatoes in the northern region.

He also said the government planned to upgrade Bogura Airport into an international airport with cargo-handling facilities to facilitate the export of potatoes and vegetables.

Special guest RDA Director General Abdul Majid Pramanik stressed the need for agricultural mechanisation and better coordination among research, education and industry.

Rural Development and Cooperatives Division Secretary Dr. Rafiqul E Mohamed chaired the programme.

The fair is jointly organised by the RDA, Bogura, and LIMRA Trade Fairs and Exhibitions.