Abdul Awal Mintoo gets World Food Prize

The World Food Prize Foundation, based in the United States, has named agricultural entrepreneur Abdul Awal Mintoo as a recipient of this year's award for his significant contributions to Bangladesh's agriculture and food sector. 

On Tuesday, the foundation announced its list of 39 'Top Agri-Food Pioneers' from 27 countries, recognising Mintoo, who serves as Chairman and Managing Director of Lal Teer Seed Limited and also Vice Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).

For over four decades, Mintoo has dedicated himself to advancing agriculture and food security, focusing on seeds, vegetables, and livestock. 

In 1994, he founded Lal Teer Seed Limited on a modest 25-acre plot, transforming it into one of South and Southeast Asia’s leading private agricultural institutions, ranked seventh regionally by United Nations partner organisations. 

Mintoo also pioneered the establishment of Bangladesh’s only internationally accredited seed laboratory (ISTA-recognised), which popularised hybrid and improved seeds, significantly boosting vegetable production.

Mintoo’s groundbreaking research uncovered critical insights into buffalo life cycles in Bangladesh, and he introduced semen technology to enhance cattle breeds for improved fattening. 

Reflecting on the award, Mintoo stated, "My work has always aimed to uplift farmers. I am committed to advancing agriculture, food, and nutritional security through technology and research. This recognition inspires me to expand my efforts further."

The award will be formally presented at the Norman E. Borlaug International Dialogue in Des Moines, Iowa, from October 21 to 23, coinciding with the foundation’s 39th anniversary. 

Foundation President Mashal Hossain remarked, "Amid global food, nutrition, and climate challenges, these 39 honorees are transformative leaders driving sustainable change in the global food system." 

The nominees include scientists, farmers, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and humanitarians dedicated to sustainable food system development.