Dhaka, June 3 -- Marginal and landless farmers with "smart cards" will get priority in agricultural loans under the central bank's refinancing scheme to help support recovery efforts and boost production following recent downpours in many areas.

The decision is in line with the "Farmer Smart Card Policy-2025" of the Department of Agricultural Extension, says a Bangladesh Bank notification issued on Tuesday.

Chief executives of all banks were sent the instruction.

Citing the "Farmer Smart Card" policy, the notification said banks will open accounts at Tk 10 for the cardholders and will prioritise them in providing loans under the refinancing programme.

The banks have also been asked to take necessary steps to ensure marginal and landle...