Proceedings of the 6^th Industrial Engineering and Operations Management Bangladesh Conference

Dhaka, Bangladesh, December 26-28, 2023

Sustainable Agricultural Supply Chain Management: A Strategic Roadmap for Development in Bangladesh's Diverse Terrain

Quazi Monjur E-Elahi, Md Sanadiule Shorif Ullash and Rawnak Labiba Noor

Department of Mechanical and Production Engineering

Ahsanullah University of Science and Technology (AUST)

Dhaka, Bangladesh

Abstract

The overall geographical location of entire Bangladesh has displayed significant agricultural potential with a diversified crop portfolio. However, challenges hinder the growth of the region's agricultural supply chain. This study introduces a comprehensive and sustainable long-term framework for expanding the agricultural sector throughout Bangladesh. The research begins by examining the historical constraints that have characterized Bangladesh's agricultural economy, including subsistence farming and the dominance of intermediaries. Recent infrastructural improvements, such as new transportation networks, have opened up new opportunities for cultivating profitable crops like fruits and spices. Nevertheless, transportation remains a major barrier, impacting effective supply chain management and market access. In order to fully harness the agricultural potential of Bangladesh, we propose the implementation of a sustainable supply chain management structure founded on principles of sustainability, efficiency, and traceability. The study identifies sectors such as manufacturing, storage, transportation, packaging, marketing, and information sharing as areas requiring enhancement. Combining both quantitative and qualitative data gathered from 100 farmers through questionnaires and interviews, the study highlights issues like low agricultural yields, post-harvest losses, inadequate storage facilities, costly transportation, crop damage during transit and storage, limited market opportunities, and poor information exchange. The suggested roadmap addresses these challenges by promoting improved farming practices, enhanced storage facilities, efficient transportation networks, appropriate packaging, expanded marketing avenues, and improved information flow. The adoption of this approach would lead to a more efficient, profitable, and environmentally sustainable agricultural supply chain throughout Bangladesh, benefiting farmers, consumers, and the nation as a whole. Collaboration among the local community, government, and commercial sector will be crucial for the effective implementation and overall growth of the region's agricultural sector.

Keywords: Supply chain management, Framework, Sustainability, Efficiency, Traceability.

Biographies

Quazi Monjur E-Elahi, is a newly graduate student of Industrial and Production Engineering (IPE) under the Department of Mechanical and Production Engineering (MPE) at the Ahsanullah University of Science and Technology (AUST). His research interest includes the area of Industrial Management, Manufacturing process, Supply Chain Management, Quality Assurance & Control, Advanced Material Processing, Lean Manufacturing, Technology Management and Industry 4.0. He has vast experience in content writing and research, documentation management process, content research, content quality assurance & control (QAC), team management. He has proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel. He is also focused in the research of the aerospace industry and wants to work within such an industry. He also participated in a multiple number of engineering & business case competitions showcasing his ability to solve complex problems and work collaboratively in a team. He was also the former Vice President of IEOM Society AUST Student Chapter. Furthermore, he was also the former Chief Advisor and President of Josephite Chess Club.

Md Sanadiule Shorif Ullash, is an undergraduate student of Industrial and Production Engineering under the Department of Mechanical and Production Engineering (MPE) at the Ahsanullah University of Science and Technology (AUST). His research area includes the area of Industrial Management, Supply Chain Management and Industry 4.0. He has vast experience in content writing, leadership qualities coupled with robust communication and team management competencies, which stands as a testament to his versatility. He has proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel. He has achieved noteworthy success on a several number of business and supply chain case competitions, showcasing his strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities and work collaboratively in a team. He has contributed as an organizing team member for TEDx Gulshan 2023. Furthermore, he is currently serving as the society representative of AUST IPE Society.

Rawnak Labiba Noor, is a undergradute student of Industrial and Production Engineering under the Department of Mechanical and Production Engineering (MPE) at the Ahsanullah University of Science and Technology (AUST). Her research interest includes the area of Industrial Management, Supply Chain Management, Industry 4.0, Project Management, and Operations Research. Her proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel, coupled with strong communication and team management skills, showcases her versatility. She has also distinguished herself by achieving notable success on a several number of business and supply chain case competitions, showcasing her strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities and work collaboratively in a team. She has contributed as an event organizer for TEDx Gulshan 2023. Furthermore, she has actively contributed to her school community, serving as the Treasurer for Arko, the Science Club, and the YWCA.

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Ms. Rawnak Labiba Noor