Kbd. MaEnhancing Hilly Agricultural Marketing Systems in Bangladesh through the Collection Center
Dr. Noor Akter Naher (Reba)
The Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHTs) are located in the south eastern part of Bangladesh and are divided into three districts: Bandarban, Khagrachari and Rangamati. Chakma, Marma and Tripura are the largest ethnic groups among the 13 ethnic groups of the area. In addition to indigenous peoples, nearly half of the population is Bengali settlers. The CHTs are geographically distinct from the rest of Bangladesh (mainly of plain lands). Communities of CHTs are scattered and live in sparsely populated areas. Villages are found in extremely remote and inaccessible locations. The economy of the CHTs relies on agriculture which provides 49% to 72% of the household income. Transportation and communication services are poor; the poverty rate is high; and accessibility to markets and services are challenging in the interior of CHTs. Illiteracy, lack of information and awareness, poor services, natural disaster, loss of land and marginalization are interconnected in the CHTs.