However, farmers and rural workers from only three districts--- Sylhet, Khulna and Chittagong said that they have enough income to cover their expenses. Savings are scarce among rural workers daily wage earners by definition operate on a short run rate of savings and as the coronavirus has spread through the country, 54.72% of farmers and rural workers are running on zero savings. Surprisingly, only 6.96% of farmers and rural workers received no support so far from any institutions; government or otherwise. As a result, cash (31%), free food, and medicine (45%) were the top asks from these farmers and rural workers as support from the government, private and development sectors. Military forces and credible development organizations like Brac should be included in the planning and execution phase for supporting the adversely impacted rural population segment.

Source: Dhaka Tribune May 14, 2020 15:11 UTC