Dr Shah Mohammad Hasanuzzaman, one of the country's pioneer agriculturalists, passed away at his Indira Road residence in the city yesterday morning due to old age complications at the age of 86.

Dr Hasanuzzaman, a former member of the Planning Commission, left behind his two daughters, one son and a host of relatives, admirers and disciples in rice breeding science to mourn his death.

He was a recipient of Independence Day Award.

Dr Hasanuzzaman, an emeritus scientist and former director general of Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI), who led development and release of nearly two dozens of high yielding rice varieties in the country.

His namaz-e-janaza was held on the premises of Bangladesh Agriculture Research Council yesterday afternoon.

He will be buried at his family graveyard at Narinda in the city today.

Krishibid Institution, Bangabandhu Krishibid Parishad in separate messages condoled his death.