🇧🇩 - Agriculture in Bangladesh | World Defense Forum
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🇧🇩 Agriculture in Bangladesh

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Agriculture Sectors
Last published date:
2022-07-20

Overview​

A rising middle class (estimated at over 30 million) has fueled demand for high-quality agricultural products. According to the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics for FY 2020-21, crops, livestock, fisheries, and forest products accounted for about 12.5 percent of Bangladesh’s total GDP and employed approximately 40 percent of the total population. Most agricultural production in Bangladesh is characterized as traditional subsistence farming. Bangladesh produces a variety of agricultural products such as rice, wheat, corn, legumes, fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, seafood, and dairy products. Rice is the main staple in the Bangladeshi diet. Lack of arable land and limited natural resources increase the importance of developing new agricultural technologies, such as salt tolerant or submergence tolerant seed varieties, to help increase productivity and meet future demand. Floods, cyclones, and biotic-abiotic stress can also affect agricultural productivity levels and incomes.

Although Bangladesh imports bulk commodities such as wheat, soybeans, and pulses, there are niche segment opportunities for high-value agricultural product imports, particularly in more affluent urban centers such as Dhaka and Chittagong. Strong consumer demand exists for imported fresh fruits, tree nuts, and dairy products, as well as processed food products.
Total Market Size for Agricultural Products: 2016-2021

201620172018201920202021
Total Local Production$30,424$33,374$35,882$38,095$37,568$38,801
Total Exports$1,488$1,625$1,418$1,600$1,343$1,586
Total Imports$5,991$9,470$5,952$8,000$8,442$10,334
Imports from the U.S.$496$889$1,087$1,300$966$1,031
Total Market Size$34,927$41,219$40,417$44,495$44,667$47,549
Exchange Rates798182848585

total market size = (total local production + imports) - exports)
Units: $ millions

Leading Sub-Sectors​

The processed food industry accounts for approximately 13 percent of all manufacturing production value and employs 6.5 percent of the manufacturing labor force. The industry employs 1.4 percent of the country’s total labor force, and the sector is dominated by small- and medium-sized enterprises strongly linked to local production. There are nearly 292 medium-sized food manufacturing enterprises in the country processing baked goods, confectionery items, fruits and vegetables, cereals, dairy goods, fruit juices, and other foods and beverages.

Opportunities​

Agricultural equipment and technology; agriculture inputs, including feed, seeds, pesticides, and fertilizer; dairy processing equipment; fish processing equipment; packaging and canning equipment and technology; agriculture infrastructure consulting services and solutions, including silos and cold chain/cold storage facilities.

Resources​

  • Ministry of Agriculture
  • Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council
  • Food and Agriculture Organization
  • Ministry of Food
  • Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries
  • Ministry of Textile and Jute
  • Ministry of Commerce
 

More attention needed for the agriculture sector​

1707036249301.png


More emphasis should be given on agricultural mechanisation and the use of ICT in farming. PHOTO: STAR

The agriculture sector is one of the key economic pillars of Bangladesh. Just after liberation in 1971, its contribution to GDP was around 60 percent. It is the most important sector in Bangladesh that helps with peoples' livelihoods, employment, and contributes to GDP, we all know that. But its share of GDP has decreased over the last decade, going from 17 percent in 2010 to 12.6 percent in 2020.

Countries around the world are now facing serious inflationary challenges mainly due to the Russia-Ukraine war, which is greatly harming the global economy. The global commodity market is facing considerable instability due to supply chain disruptions. Bangladesh has also been affected by all these, and is struggling to cope with the situation. The country was already experiencing significant inflationary pressure, and the added price hike has made the situation almost unbearable for the general people.

On the other hand, its foreign currency reserves have been going down. The impact of the three Cs – climate change, Covid-19, and conflict (Russia-Ukraine war) – has given birth to another "C" which is quite evidently, the cost. However, these could be tackled with three As – agriculture, austerity and assistance – which could save all of us.

Over the years, Bangladesh has written a remarkable story of poverty reduction and development, especially during the past decade. After its independence in 1971, it was one of the poorest countries in the world. But Bangladesh successfully reached the lower-middle-income status in 2015 and is now on track to graduate from the UN's Least Developed Countries (LDC) category by 2026.

However, compared to many other countries of the world, we are still lagging behind in terms of technology, education, economy, farming, and in numerous other sectors. Bangladesh is now an important part of the global village. And it will not always be easy for Bangladesh to overcome different global shocks. It is because we currently have so many issues to cope with that the government announced a measured budget for the fiscal year 2022-2023.

In his budget speech for the fiscal year 2022-2023, Finance Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal emphasised on boosting food production to ensure food security amid the Russia-Ukraine war and global food price hike. He proposed an allocation of Tk 33,698 crore for food, fisheries, and agriculture for the coming fiscal year, which is only 6.2 percent of the total budget. He talked about increasing fertiliser subsidies from Tk 12,000 crore (2021-2022) to Tk 16,000 crore.

The significance of farming as a whole, including the sub-sectors, service and industry sectors, has increased manifold. The cultivation of high-value fruit orchards and vegetables also played a significant role in boosting the economy. Not only the farms, but the value addition of these agricultural products provided a much-needed boost for the agricultural service sector. Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI) must be credited for the grain production and they have been quite remarkable, I must say. Alongside the production, the research didn't stop for a day and with responsibility, it moved ahead with the support of Bangladeshi Agricultural Research Institute (BARI). Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture (BINA) also deserves credit for their advanced techniques in boosting agricultural production and for developing technologies that are environmentally friendly and sustainable.

The farming sector has individually employed more than 40.6 percent people, either directly or indirectly. Previously, farmers in our country were really poor, but today, they have changed their fates with their persistent labour and certainly with quality seed support. And that has also led to farmers' buying capacity increasing. They can now feed themselves and their family and also send their children to school.
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Over the years, Bangladesh has written a remarkable story of poverty reduction and development. PHOTO: HABIBUR RAHMAN

If we look at the three main driving forces of our economy – i.e., farming, RMG, and remittances – we will see the sons and the daughters of farmers working in all three sectors. Oftentimes, they send their earnings back to their parents in their villages. And this money is used to invest in farming – both in small- and large-scale initiatives. This has not only strengthened our economy, but has empowered the youth, especially women, and has also helped raise the voice of the impoverished. Moreover, agricultural tourism has opened a new door for us. I have seen in many European countries and in the US the concept of the family farm. Many young entrepreneurs in Bangladesh have started a number of wonderful eco-resorts across the country and people from around Bangladesh are visiting these beautiful places to get close to nature and farming.

Climate change is a big challenge, which we are facing and will have to face with the use of new agricultural technologies and adaptability. We must closely follow global adaptation technologies and concentrate more on new examples of climate adaptability which is best suited for us. More emphasis should be given on agricultural mechanisation and the use of ICT in farming, as this will help us greatly in fighting back against climate change. In the same way, we should also focus on the weather-based index and crop insurance which will ensure real empowerment of farmers and will make them more resilient. Artificial intelligence will play a key role and I don't think family farms will remain, but the pattern of farming will change entirely. Overall, the system will change and we will go through a global paradigm shift. Ultimately, we will have to face the challenge of hidden carbon emission and we will need technologies to overcome it. After 50 years, farming will become more expensive, but there will be a global export market where Bangladesh will hopefully be at the forefront.

Despite the high population, decreasing arable land, and frequent natural disasters, Bangladesh has made significant progress in achieving self-sufficiency in producing cereal crops and reducing poverty. Almost half of the population is now employed in the farming sector. Therefore, our state policies must be aligned with the interest of this sector, especially at a time when we are facing numerous challenges as a nation. I believe that, if we could safeguard the marginal farmers, bring in modern technologies, properly execute the Delta Plan, and strengthen inter-ministerial coordination, the country will keep moving forward and the farming sector will continue to flourish.
 

Cultivation of colorful cauliflower is increasing in Bangladesh - price is double and is rich in Beta-Carotene, tastes better too.​




 

Nahar Agro seeks to lead egg market with Tk150 crore new investment​

It aims to sell 10 lakh eggs per day for the consumers by 2025​


Nahar Agro seeks to lead egg market with Tk150 crore new investment


Nahar Agro, a Chattogram-based agro farm, plans to make a Tk150 crore new investment to expand its poultry business to enter the egg market with around 10 lakh daily supply by 2025.

The new investment plan is expected to transform the farm, which is heavily concentrated on hatching egg production, into a major player in the egg market in the Chattogram region, company officials say.

"There is a daily demand for 50 lakh eggs in the Chattogram region, but there are not enough poultry farms in the area to meet the demand. We are planning to fill the gap in production to ease the crisis in the market while also reducing the price," Rakibur Rahman, managing director of the company, told The Business Standard.

Currently, the company produces nearly 2.5 lakh hatching eggs a day, apart from some consumable ones with double yolks. It also has businesses in areas ranging from poultry and fish feed to dairy and horticulture products.

The move comes at a time when Bangladesh is grappling with price volatility in the egg market, forcing it to allow imports from neighbouring India as a tool for stabilising the situation.

Initially, Nahar Agro aims to supply two lakh eggs per day by this year, which will eventually increase to 10 lakh by the next year, according to company officials.

With the massive business expansion plan, it hopes to create around 1,000 new jobs alongside producing 50-60 tonnes of environmentally friendly bio-fertiliser per day.

The company says it has already taken initiatives to import modern machinery and establish new farms in different parts of the district in phases.

In the first phase, the company plans to set up a shed to produce two lakh eggs per day by 2024. By the end of 2025, the company will set up all seven sheds containing 1.2 million hens to produce one million eggs.

"We hope to set up all the sheds in phases to produce 10 lakh eggs by 2025 and then we have plans to double the production in the next two years," Rakibur said.

The company aims to incorporate modern technologies in its egg production, such as an automatic system for brooding, egg collection, drinking, and feeding facilities, alongside installing an automatic ventilation system and automatic heating and cooling equipment in the new layer industry.

"There will also be an automatic litter collection system to turn the litter into biofertiliser. We are working on that, particularly to make our new industry more effective," Rakibur told TBS, adding that the industry will produce 50-60 tonnes of biofertiliser every day.

In a span of 37 years since starting business as a livestock venture in 1989, Nahar Agro has become one of the country's largest and most successful agro-business entities with an annual turnover of around Tk1,000 crore. It employs more than 2,500 people directly and another 10,000 indirectly.

The company has maintained a sustainable growth with top-quality day-old chicks, poultry and fish feed, along with dairy and horticulture products.

It has 12 lakh parent-stock (broiler and layer) chickens in its poultry farms. From the eggs laid by the parent-stock chickens, 22 lakh to 24 lakh chicks are produced every week in its hatcheries.

Besides, its dairy farm has 1,700 breeding and milking cows, producing about 5,500 to 6,000 litres of milk daily.
Nahar Agro operates four poultry and fish feed mills in Mirsharai, Sirajganj, and Jashore, with a production capacity of 60,000 tonnes per month. Currently, these mills produce 30,000 tonnes of feed a month, with 20% used by the company's own farms and the remaining 80% marketed.

Additionally, the agro company provides chicks, feed, and other technical support to around 10,000 poultry farmers across approximately 5,000 poultry farms nationwide.
 
Growing Roselle buds in Bangladesh which is consumed (after drying) as a tea (and is an organic superfood). One KG sells for Tk. 4000 and many times that amount overseas.



 

Agricultural Mechanization Landscape of Bangladesh: Access to Finance a Significant Barrier​

Profile

LightCastle Analytics Wing​

May 30, 2023

Agricultural Mechanization Landscape of Bangladesh: Access to Finance a Significant Barrier


Agriculture has contributed 11.66% to the country’s total GDP in 2021-22; with 5.64% coming from crops and horticulture. According to the latest provision labor force survey 2022, the proportion of the population employed in Agriculture (of total employed) is 45.3%, up by 4.7% from that of 2017. On top of that, most farmers in Bangladesh come from lower-income segments, which makes strengthening the agricultural value chain a crucial step for fostering inclusive growth.

Current State of Agricultural Mechanization in Bangladesh​

Agri-mechanization is the process of integrating modern machines and equipment in farming to increase productivity and reduce farmers’ vulnerability to labor shortages and natural calamities. Bangladesh has gone through phases in terms of mechanization. Per a study in 2019, operations that are most heavily mechanized (over 90%) are Land Preparation, Irrigation, Threshing and Pesticide application [4]. The rates of mechanization during Planting and Harvesting are below 2%; that of Fertilizer application and Weeding are higher, but still below 10%.

image001-1.webp


Combine Harvester
Agri-machineries of the Domestic Market: Reaper


Reaper
Agri-machineries of the Domestic Market: Rice Transplanter


Rice Transplanter
Figure 1: Agri-machineries of the Domestic Market


Urgency of Agricultural Mechanization in Bangladesh​


Changes in Labor Force Composition​


Although the 2022 labor force data shows a recent increase in the proportion employed in the agriculture sector, in the past three decades, rural labor has been migrating to the cities of Bangladesh as a significant portion of unskilled agricultural laborers has switched to working in the service sector, as well as in the RMG sector, catering to the high demand for cheap labor.

As a consequence, there has been a shortage of agricultural laborers in the rural areas, particularly in times of manpower-intensive work like planting and harvesting. The labor crisis and high prices of labor have increased the cost of production. Since these operations are very time-sensitive in nature, the unavailability of laborers often leads to late planting or harvesting, exposing farmers to further risks of natural calamities or low yield.

Two-fold Benefits of Mechanization​


Agricultural mechanization generates higher productivity, efficiency and prevents the loss of crops. Manual planting in Bangladesh requires around 123-150 man-hour/hectare while mechanical transplanting with a four-row walking transplanter would take 9-11 man-hour/hectare. A delay of one month in transplanting can reduce yield by 25%; that of 2 months can reduce 70% of the total crop yield. A study titled “On- and Off-Farm Mechanization in Bangladesh: A Sustainable Approach to Ensure Food Security” conducted by the Bangladesh Agricultural University on rice cultivation has shown that using seed planters, transplanters and harvesting machines, the cost of each operation could be brought down by at least 50%.
.

Challenges to Agricultural Mechanization in Bangladesh​


Lack of Modern Machinery in the Market​


The annual market size for agricultural machinery in the country is Tk3,000 crore, according to industry experts. However, the market for small machinery manufactured by local entrepreneurs is only 10-12% of the total agri-machinery market size[9]. Ready to use, agricultural machinery of competitive quality is not being produced domestically. The product portfolio of local foundries and agricultural machinery manufacturing industries majorly consists of spare parts and small machines like rice milling machines, sprayer machines, threshers, and vertical pumps.

Supply-side Actors in the agricultural mechanization Landscape
Figure 2: Supply-side Actors in the Agri-machinery Landscape

Agricultural mechanization Value Chain in Bangladesh


Figure 3: Agri-machinery Value Chain in Bangladesh

At present, domestic manufacturers lack the technology to fully manufacture larger machines like threshers, planters, combine harvesters, etc. Qualified manpower with knowledge and skills related to designing, drawing, reverse engineering, and maintaining quality control is also one of the reasons for this. Other factors include the absence of modern machine manufacturing machinery, high price, and dependency on imported raw materials.

The impact of COVID-19 and the ongoing Ukraine-Russia war has increased raw material prices and utility overheads for these foundries and workshops, affecting their profitability even more.

Access to Finance from Formal Financial Institutions​


Both supply and demand side players currently face certain barriers to accessing finance. The GoB has provided 70% and 50% subsidies on selected machinery but even after the assistance, farmers struggle to bear the rest of the cost. A major machinery manufacturer opined that Banks need to grant farmers better-suited loan schemes in order for them to purchase the machinery.

Lack of access to finance from traditional financial institutions in the agriculture machinery market and the agricultural sector in general also leads to many farmers borrowing from informal money lenders or loan sharks, who typically provide faster disbursement but at a much higher cost of funds, making it harder for farmers to save money for adopting mechanization in the future.

Most agri-loan products in the formal financing sector in Bangladesh do not consider the cultivation period of crops. Many farmers take additional loans at higher rates to pay off-season financial condition of farmers, hindering further mechanization efforts. Lack of working capital financing for manufacturers leads to limited supply during peak demand. Banks and NBFIs require certain documentation like sales ledgers, audited financial statements, environmental and health certifications to give out loans. Small machinery manufacturers often don’t have these documents prepared and therefore do not get approved for loans.

From the Financial Institutions’ side, the policy-dictated interest rate for agricultural loans (8%) does not justify the credit risk of lending to small-scale machinery manufacturers or farmers. As a consequence, most institutions are averse to approving loans from these applicants. Ultimately, the gap in access to finance persists.

Agriculture Machinery Loan Landscape​


There are a total of 61 scheduled and 5 non-scheduled commercial banks in Bangladesh, 34 NBFIs, of which 3 are Government owned. More than 1000 MFIs operate in the domestic landscape, although 87% of the market is captured by the top 10 institutions.

Despite the large number of players in the financing landscape, the formal MSME finance gap is 67.3 percent. In Bangladesh, Foundries access formal finance through banks (public and private), NBFIs, and MFIs. Agricultural credit disbursement targets are set by the Central Bank to encourage banks to venture into this sector. They also provide refinancing facilities to the participating banks. The agricultural credit disbursement target has been set at Tk 30,911 crore for FY23, which is 8.88 percent higher than Tk 28,391 crore targeted in FY22.

Banks in Bangladesh provide specialized agricultural loans to farmers at an average interest rate of 4-8%. Krishi Bank, the only government-owned bank specialized for farmers, offers a credit program for farm and irrigation equipment[16]. Non-Banking Financial Institutions (NBFIs) also offer agricultural financing products, at an average interest rate of 5-7%. However, the loan approval process is reportedly more stringent in the case of NBFIs. Institutions like IPDC and Midas have their own lease financing program specialized for equipment purchase with tenures ranging from 1 to 5 years.

Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) in Bangladesh provide agricultural loans, though the interest rate is often 3 times as high as that of banks. On average, it has been estimated that farmers pay nearly 25% in interest to MFIs for loans that they would not have received from any other institution. BRAC offers a dedicated loan scheme for smallholder farmers to adapt to farming technologies called “Borga Chashi Unayyon Project (BCUP)”.

Large machinery companies provide credit facilities to small service providers and farmers, but they require a down payment of around 40% of the remaining amount after subsidy coverage. This means that the machinery companies are taking on the burden of recovery for the remaining 60%, which hurts their cash inflow. On the other hand, this loan is usually to be repaid in a year with monthly installments which affects farmers or machine service providers due to the seasonality impact on their business, making monthly repayment impractical.

Efforts of the Government of Bangladesh to Promote Agricultural Mechanization​


To promote mechanization in the agriculture sector, the Government of Bangladesh has provided subsidies starting from 50% (70% in coastal regions) on the purchase of specific machines. The machines under this scheme include power tillers, reapers, rice transplanters, and combine harvesters.
According to finance minister A H M Mustafa Kamal, the Government has taken up a project at a cost of Tk 30.2 billion titled ‘Mechanisation of Agriculture Work through Integrated Management’, targeted to distribute 51,300 units of agro-machinery from 12 categories between 2020-2025,”.

In FY21, the government distributed 2,300 different agri-machinery, including 1,762 combine harvesters, 379 reapers, and 34 rice transplanters at a cost of Tk 208 crore among farmers under the agricultural mechanization project. In FY 2021-22, there was an allocation of Tk 680 crore in this regard.
In FY 2021-22, Bangladesh Bank set a monetary policy to reduce the interest rate cap on agriculture from 9% to 8% and started providing loans at 4% interest rate for crops and the harvest sector. Most Foundries and Workshops fall under cottage, micro and small enterprises, to whom Banks and NBFIs have been instructed to provide 50% of SME loans by 2024. These initiatives have been taken with the aim of increasing agricultural production and consequentially, the income of rural people. Improved access to finance for cottage, micro, small and medium enterprises (CMSMEs) will also lead to farmers gaining access to tools that will enhance agricultural productivity.

The government also plans to withdraw the advance tax (AT) levied on the import of rice transplanters, agricultural drier machines, all types of sprayers, and potato planters in the upcoming national budget aiming to modernize the agriculture sector.

Conclusion​

The cost of larger agri-machineries is often too high for farmers or small machine manufacturers to pay upfront. Hence, they seek financial assistance. Adoption of machines would increase profitability but both end users and manufacturers will typically need multiple seasons to earn back the capital expenditure from their revenues.

Loan provisions for agricultural machinery purchase by commercial banks, NGOs, NBFIs should have a specialized low interest, long repayment periods and alternative risk mitigation schemes in order to improve the mechanization status of the country. Given the rising pressure on imports, and supply chain disruptions affecting industries across the board, mechanization of the agricultural sector, to raise productivity and reduce import dependency, is of paramount importance.

Author​

Priyo Pranto, Business Consultant at LightCastle Partners, has prepared the write-up. For further clarifications, contact here: info@lightcastlebd.com.
 

Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture (BINA)

Introduction​

Started in a small radiotracer laboratory (RAGENE) in 1961 under the Atomic Energy Commission (erstwhile PAEC) at Dhaka, a centre named "Institute of Nuclear Agriculture (INA)" was established in July 1972 with a more organized group under BAEC (Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission) at Dhaka, and shifted to the campus of Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh in 1975. In 1982, INA was given “the status of an independent national agricultural research institute” like BARI and BRRI, and was placed under the administrative control of Ministry of Agriculture. In 1984, it was declared as a national institute and renamed as Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture (BINA) through promulgation of Ordinance No. II of 1984. BINA Ordinance was amended and enacted by Bangladesh Parliament vide Act No. IV of 1996.

The headquarters of Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture (BINA) is located in the campus of the Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), Mymensingh. It is about 5 km south from the Mymensingh Railway Station, and about 125 km north from Dhaka City. Its infrastructure and related facilities cover an area of 33 acres within the BAU campus. In addition to its office campus, BINA has another residential campus at Mymensingh town covering an area of 8.2 acres.

Director General is the Chief Executive of the institute assisted by Director (Research), Director (Administration and Support Service) and Director (Training and Planning). The general direction, administration and supervision of the affairs of the Institute is vested in the Management Board, which in discharging its function on policy issues is guided by such instructions as may be given to it by the Government from time to time. As the chief executive of the institute, the Director General is the ex-officio Chairman of the Management Board.

Total manpower of the Institute in its Headquarter, Regional office and sub-stations are 578 comprising the DG, 3 Directors, 170 scientists, 36 class-I officers, 40 class-II officers, 211 class-III employees and 117 class-IV employees. However, out of 170 scientists, 50 are with PhD degrees.

It has got 11 full-fledged research divisions viz. Plant Breeding, Soil Science, Crop Physiology, Entomology, Plant Pathology, Agronomy, Agricultural Engineering, Training, Communications & Publications, Biotechnology, Horticulture, and Agricultural Economics. At present, BINA has got 1 regional office at Sreepur,Gazipur and 13 substations located in various parts of the country namely Rangpur, Ishurdi, Magura, Satkhira, Comilla, Jamalpur, Khagrachari, Sunamganj, Sherpur, Barisal, Gopalganj, Noakhali and Chapainawabganj. BINA has also developed a rich soil museum with collections of various soil samples of Bangladesh.

BINA has well equipped laboratories in almost all research divisions along with 3 glasshouses, field research facilities in its Headquarters at Mymensingh, one regional office and thirteen sub-stations. The major equipment items are Gamma (Co-60) Source, N-15 Analyzer, Liquid Scientillion Counter, Fluorescent and Phase Contrast Microscopes, Biolog, Gas Chromatograph, HPLC, PCR, Gel Electrophoresis, Gel Doc, Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer, Gamma Spectrophotometer, -80°C Freezer, Portable Photosynthesis System, UV Spectrophotometer, Fermented, Neutron Moisture Meter, Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometer etc.

BINA conducts its research activities in ten different areas. These are: i. Crop improvement through induced mutation, ii. Biotechnology, iii. Soil management and biofertilizer, iv. Irrigation and water management, v. Pest management, vi. Physiological aspects of crop productivity, vii. Crop management, viii. Improvement of horticultural crops, ix. Technology transfer & impact assessment, and x. Socio-economic research.

BINA has so far succeeded in developing and releasing 125 modern varieties of 19 important crops by using nuclear techniques and these varieties are now making significant contributing to raise the agricultural productivity of Bangladesh. It has also been able to identify nine rhizobial inocula for fixing higher biological nitrogen in soils of increase the seed yield of bean, pulses and oil crops
 

Our journey towards a smart revolution in agriculture​

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Experts think that it is important to train farmers to adopt technologies and learn about advanced technology-based agricultural management to improve farm production. PHOTO: STAR

Over the past 52 years, Bangladesh has achieved remarkable progress in the agricultural sector, thanks to the hard work and innovation of millions of small farmers, researchers, innovators and government support. The country has become self-sufficient in rice production, quadrupling its output, and has also made great strides in vegetable production, fruits, fish, meat, milk and egg. Bangladesh's agricultural sector is currently transforming due to urbanisation, economic growth, and increased demand for safe and nutritious food. There are vast opportunities in crops, horticulture, livestock, aquaculture, and more, including increased production, better processing, stress-resistant crops, and good agricultural practices.

We must leverage data-driven solutions and technologies to access local, regional, and international markets, and the potential is well recognised. We cannot afford to ignore the urgent need for knowledge cooperation to use smart agricultural technologies, which must be implemented. However, Bangladesh also faces climatic challenges, which have renewed the country's focus on revitalising and improving the capacity of agriculture. There is significant potential for agricultural diversification, but meeting the challenges will require effort and investment. We must prioritise increased productivity and commercialisation of agriculture to promote overall growth and reduce poverty. It is therefore increasingly urgent to introduce climate solutions in the sector and address ongoing challenges such as low productivity and sustainability due to climate change, post-harvest loss, low-value addition, and very few food storage systems. Climate-smart technology is another significant tool for prioritisation.

Bangladesh benefits and suffers from one of the most extensive river systems in the world, with a large delta. During the monsoon season, 55-60 percent of the land is submerged in water, and during the dry season, there is very little water. Bangladesh's coastal areas are prone to cyclones, typhoons, and sea-level rise. Water resource management is critical to support the agriculture system, as well as supporting vulnerable rural communities. Flood control, drainage, irrigation, water supply, and integrated water management are the key areas of water resource management. We must prioritise disaster risk management, conservation, and cooperation with Bangladesh's riverine neighbours (India, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and China) as strategic priorities.

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By engaging in agritourism, Bangladesh can showcase its agricultural diversity, foster community engagement, and promote sustainable practices. PHOTO: RAJIB RAIHAN

Over the past three decades, agriculture has benefited from significant investments in flood control, drainage, and irrigation projects, mainly using surface water for irrigation. However, we must acknowledge that the sustainability of these investments has been weak. The Bangladesh Delta Plan 2100 and the Eighth five-year plan (2020-2025) focus on accelerating agricultural commercialisation to provide sustainable, safe, and diversified food products. We must support the sustainable expansion and diversification of climate-resilient agricultural production systems, which are better integrated with global and local markets, to provide food and nutrition security, as well as improve rural livelihoods, especially for women and vulnerable communities. Strategy for water resources management emphasises the need to improve irrigation efficiencies and water productivity to ensure optimal water use, reduce vulnerability, and ensure the availability of water for economic purposes and hygiene, and to protect aquatic and water-dependent ecosystems. The strategy also emphasises institutional reform of the water sector agencies to achieve effective, integrated, and sustainable water management, with sustainable operation and maintenance. Finally, we must emphasise the inclusive participation of all stakeholders to achieve our goals.

The agro-food processing industry in the country relies heavily on agricultural products and is characterised by its diverse range of sizes, technologies, product qualities, processing methods, preservation techniques, and marketing and distribution systems. This sector contributes to more than 22 percent of the country's manufacturing production, employs approximately 20 percent of the labour force, and accounts for about 2 percent of the GDP (MoI, 2012). In recent years, Bangladesh's agricultural industry has been increasingly focusing on expanding its presence in exports markets.

Within the country, there are nearly 700 food processing enterprises, including small-scale homemade processing units. Among these, at least 30 enterprises specialise in processing fruits and vegetables. The food processing sector encompasses a wide range of products, including cereals, pulses and oilseeds, bakery and confectionery items, fruits and vegetables, dairy products, carbonated and non-carbonated beverages, fruit juices, and various other food items. Bangladesh itself has a significant domestic market for processed food products. The Bangladesh Agro-Processors' Association (BAPA) currently has 479 members, consisting of 244 exporters and 235 manufacturers of agro-processing products.

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Over the past 52 years, Bangladesh has achieved remarkable progress in the agricultural sector, thanks to the hard work and innovation of millions of small farmers. PHOTO: Star

In the fiscal year 2021-22, Bangladesh witnessed a remarkable growth in its export of agricultural-industrial products. The value of these exports reached an impressive Tk 282.3 billion, marking a significant increase of 272 percent compared to Tk 75.8 billion in 2006-07. This export category encompassed a diverse range of live/frozen and dried products from the fisheries and agriculture sectors, as well as jute and jute goods. Notably, jute and jute goods dominated the export consignments, with a value of Tk 112.8 billion in 2021-22, reflecting a substantial growth of 278 percent from Tk 29.9 billion in 2006-07. The crop sector played a pivotal role in this export surge, contributing an array of products such as potatoes, vegetables, pulses, oilseeds, spices, fruits, tea, nuts, seeds, tobacco, and dry foods. The export value of agriculture products witnessed a staggering increase of 2,892 percent from Tk 3.9 billion in 2006-07 to Tk 116.2 billion in 2021-22, making a significant contribution to the sectoral income. On the other hand, the export of fish products remained relatively stable throughout these years, with a marginal increase from Tk 42.1 billion in 2006-07 to Tk 53.3 billion in 2021-22. Despite this, the overall growth in Bangladesh's agricultural-industrial exports showcases the country's potential and success in this sector.

The advancements brought about by the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) have the potential to greatly impact Bangladesh's progress in the 21st century. With the rapid development of computing power, connectivity, artificial intelligence, robotics, and other advanced technologies, there is significant opportunity for these innovations to revolutionise the agricultural sector, as the implementation of the "Digital Bangladesh" programme aims to transform the rural economy and generate employment opportunities for skilled individuals in rural areas.

Through the implementation of 4IR, a smart farming culture can be established to drive productivity in agriculture through competitive means. The utilisation of agricultural robotics technology in 4IR yields favourable outcomes, including the reduction of labour costs and the enhancement of advanced agricultural systems' quality. Farmers get access to the internet, web, and online platforms, enabling them to stay informed about the latest field information via their mobile phones. These devices are connected to IoT devices and cloud computing, providing farmers with real-time updates on light, temperature, humidity, and soil moisture in their fields through connected sensors.

Bangladesh has emerged as the 35th largest economy globally. In its early years as an independent nation in 1971, Bangladesh faced a substantial food deficit. However, the visionary leader, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, recognised the crucial role of agriculture and implemented bold initiatives to propel the concept of the green revolution for agricultural progress, which is still carried out by the government of Bangladesh. The country has now emerged as one of the leading producers globally in various agricultural sectors. It has secured a position among the top 10 producers of rice, jute, jackfruit, mango, onion, tea, vegetables, potato, and farm fish. This achievement highlights the country's significant contribution to the global market in terms of these essential commodities.

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A fish farmer in Trishal upazila of Mymensingh displays a large Pangas. Photo: COLLECTED

Furthermore, there has been a notable increase in per capita consumption of fish, meat, and milk, indicating a diversification in the diet of the population. This shift towards a more varied diet is a positive development for nutrition. However, it is crucial to address the challenges that Bangladesh faces in terms of its natural resources. The degradation of soil, water, and forests poses a threat to sustainable agriculture. Additionally, the shrinking arable land and the negative impacts of climate change further exacerbate these concerns. Ensuring nutrition security for marginal and rural populations is of utmost importance, especially in the face of increasing urbanisation and significant changes in food habits due to higher purchasing power.

Moreover, with the ever-increasing population, there is a growing demand for more food production that is both nutritious and safe. In light of these circumstances, Bangladesh must prioritise sustainable agricultural practices and invest in research and development to meet the growing food demands of its population. It is essential to strike a balance between agricultural productivity and environmental conservation to ensure a secure and sustainable future for the country.

There are some key focus points, which I must mention briefly:

a) Focus on enhanced productivity and higher efficiency in farming, using upgraded strategies, processes and tools.

b) Restructuring current pricing, storage and distribution aimed at reducing costs and ensuring availability at affordable prices.

c) Protection of farmers' interests as producers and suppliers.

d) Upgrade crop insurance and medical insurance as well as introduce a global format of farmers' pension scheme.

e) Current safety net and social protection should focus on access to affordable food.

f) Focus on advanced agricultural research.

g) Strategic framework for private sector investment and engagement in the agriculture sector.

h) Legal requirements to ensure the protection of agricultural land and farming resources.

i) Tax incentives and fiscal stimulus for agricultural products.

j) Decentralisation of key national agricultural institutions.

In the 1960s came the green revolution, and now is the best time for another revolution which has to be smart and efficient. Together, we can walk the way towards better sustainability. The smart revolution will bring about a complete change in the scenario that we are looking at now. It will not only strengthen the sector but will effectively change our livelihood. This will let us eradicate poverty and inequality, both of which are man-made. This can be undone by smart farming technologies. There is potential in everyone and people need to realise that. We know change only happens when vision meets with action. Whenever agriculture is faced with urgent challenges, it deserves urgent solutions. Yes, indeed, we do not know every solution; but our farmers are always on the ground, listening, learning and evolving. The same goes with the government, policymakers, development partners and other stakeholders in the sector. Bangladesh is not only dreaming of a better farming sector, we are building it, brick by brick, stronger than ever and, of course, together.
 

Mango trees start flowering, predicting huge output in Rajshahi​

Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha . Dhaka | Published: 16:01, Feb 16,2024


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-- BSS photo.

As the winter season ends, tens of thousands mango trees have started flowering in Rajshahi region, famous for the production of the seasonal delicious mango fruit nationwide.

Huge blooming of mango trees at this stage predicts an excellent production of the most popular fruit in the region this season, if the climatic conditions remain favourable till its harvesting period.

Principal Scientific Officer of Fruit Research Station Shafiqul Islam said the prevailing climate condition is suitable to blossom in mango trees.

He said that hundreds of thousands of mango trees have already bloomed and worn eye-catching looks with huge flowers. Flowering in mango trees began in the mid January and continues till mid-March, he added.

Every year new mango orchards, especially of Amrapali, BARI mango-3 and 4 varieties, are rapidly increasing in the districts, said agriculturists.

Naogaon was long known for paddy cultivation, but last year it became the highest mango-producing district, surpassing the mango capital of Chapainawabganj.

Dr Islam said Chapainawabganj still has the highest amount of land covered by mango orchards, but Naogaon saw a one-and-a-half-times increase in its mango farm acreage annually over the last 10 years, according to Department of Agricultural Extension data.

The area covered by mango orchards in Naogaon increased by 14,925 hectares in the period while the increase was 9,520 hectares in Chapainawabganj.

Mango farming is not only increasing, but it is changing as well. Instead of creating mango orchards for a hundred years or more, farmers are targeting only 10 years.

Golam Mourtoza, 55, a mango trader of Baneswar village under Puthiya upazila, said that the farmers are seen very busy nursing mango trees at present to protect the flower from dropping.

Usually, he added, blooming of mango in is seen to occur during the last week of January and continues till middle of March.

Motaleb Hossain, a mango grower of Charghat upazila, said he has over 200 mango trees in his orchard. He has cultivated a large variety of mangoes this season. He expects a handsome profit for the early blooming of mango trees this year.

Normally 10 mango trees are planted in one bigha of land, but in the new farming method, farmers can plant up to 200 trees in the same space, said Md Nuruzzaman, a mango grower of Porsha upazila of Naogaon.

"These trees will bear fruit for 10 years or less, and then we have to uproot them and replant."

The growth of mango orchards is the highest in the two Naogaon upazilas-- Porsha and Sapahar. They have 72 percent of the orchards of the district, says the DAE.

Meanwhile, around 65 to 70 percent mango trees have already sprouted in Chapainawabganj while 70 to 75 percent in Rajshahi as the remaining mango trees are expected to sprout by mid-March in some cases, he continued.

On behalf of the FRS, many of the grassroots mango farmers were imparted training to yield maximum output side by side with safe production after the best uses of modern technologies, Shafiqul Islam added.

Additional Director of the DAE Shamsul Wadud said the farmers have been caring and taking measures for making mango farming successful everywhere.

The farmers have been keeping contacts with the agriculture officers at the field levels to control the possible attacks by hoppers and some other pest attacks on the mango flowers.

There are around 35 lakh mango trees of different ages on some 23 thousand hectares of land in the region, said the DAE officials concerned.

The number of growing mango trees has been increasing in the region for the last couple of years. Mango, the leading seasonal cash crop of the northwestern region, vitalizes the overall economy of Rajshahi, Naogaon and Chapainawabganj districts.

After witnessing the present climate condition, both the growers and the officials are very much optimistic about high yield of the seasonal fruit.

Abul Hossain, a farmer of Mazar Diar village in Paba upazila, said buds started appearing in mango trees this season before the end of winter.​
 

Making agricultural commodities comply with WTO standards​

FE
Published :
Feb 16, 2024 21:53
Updated :
Feb 16, 2024 21:53

As an emerging producer of agricultural commodities, the need for protecting Bangladesh's indigenous plants and plant products from foreign invasive insects and pests cannot be overemphasised. Similarly it is equally important to ensure that agricultural exports from Bangladesh are free from plant species and pests that are harmful for importing countries. The necessity for such measures has gained paramountcy with the entry of Bangladesh's agricultural products into the billion-dollar-earner club in FY 2021-2022. It may be recalled that in FY22, Bangladesh earned USD1.16 billion from exporting agricultural goods and processed foods, according to the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB). In the fiscal (FY21), too, for the first time in the country's history, foreign currency receipts from agricultural export touched the billion-dollar mark. It has, therefore, become urgent that the country's agricultural exports in the global market are maintained sustainably.


To do so, Bangladesh must meet the World Trade Organization (WTO)'s Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Agreements. Notably, the Agreement on the SPS Agreement came into effect with the establishment of the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 1995. The SPS Agreement explicitly recognises the right of governments to take measures to protect human, animal and plant health as long as these are based on science. The question of adhering to science arises here because there is also the risk of arbitrary application of this protective measures against similar plant products of foreign origin in a discriminatory manner. So, in line with the WTO's SPS Agreement, the government first enacted the Bangladesh Plant Quarantine Act 2011 followed by Bangladesh Plant Quarantine Rules 2018. But to update the regulations so enacted to meet international standards, the government is required to amend the original Plant Quarantine Act 2011 for regulation of international transport of plant and plant products. However, at the moment, there is no full-fledged authority to oversee if the Act and the Rules thereof (adopted later) are being observed in their exact text and spirit. As a makeshift arrangement, the director of the 'plant protection wing under the department of agriculture' is functioning as the national quarantine authority. The good news is that the government has already prepared a draft proposal for constitution of a dedicated body for the purpose, held discussions among relevant government bodies and with stakeholders before finalising what it termed the National Plant Quarantine Authority.

The envisaged regulatory body would, among its other functions, prevent the introduction of quarantine pests into the country. Obviously, that would require the plant quarantine stations at the country's ports of entry to be extra-cautious as well as highly efficient in their job. Similarly, they have to be equally adept at meeting the phytosanitary requirements (relating to plant health) including issuance of phytosanitary certificates following the requirements of the countries importing Bangladeshi plants in line with international agreements. There is always the risk of an outbreak of plant diseases at home, the quarantine authority to be established would also have to look into that.

The emphasis on maintaining high quality of Bangladesh's agricultural export is obviously part of expanding its export basket. In this connection, the government plans to export US$3.0 billion worth of agricultural goods this year and hopes to raise it to US$10 billion in the near future. Let the proposed National Plant Quarantine Authority be foolproof enough to meet international standards and also be equal to the nation's ambition to become a regional agricultural product hub.​
 

Agriculture remains the vanguard​

ATIUR RAHMAN
Published :​
Feb 20, 2024 21:25
Updated :​
Feb 20, 2024 21:25

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A farmer harvests rice in a paddy field in Nilphamari, Bangladesh, on May 17, 2022—Xinhua Photo

Tagore believed, "Now is not the time for the farmers alone to toil, rather the scholars and scientists ought to join them." (Bhumilakshmi, Rabindra Rachanabali, 14th Part, Page 360). Fortunately for us, multidisciplinary approaches to agricultural development, as envisaged by Tagore, have been adhered to in Bangladesh first under the leadership of the Father of the Nation and then under the leadership of his daughter. Therefore, agriculture has always been serving as a macroeconomic vanguard like a wall against any potential economic crisis. The growth in agriculture has always been poverty-reduction and augmenting level of consumption, particularly at the bottom of the social pyramid of Bangladesh.

The entire economy of Bangladesh is now enjoying the benefits of the 'quantum jump' of agricultural development that has been taking place since 2009-10. The country not only survived the fallouts of the global financial crisis of that time, but also went through a commendable phase of resilient growth. This has been possible due to inclusive macroeconomic policies (especially due to the broad-based inclusive financing campaign) undertaken by Bangladesh. The agriculture sector served as the vanguard throughout this process. Firstly, around 40 per cent of the workforce remained employed in this sector (the ratio is said to be up to 60-65 per cent if those relying indirectly on agriculture are considered). Thus, through the income of agricultural entrepreneurs and agricultural workers the benefits of broad-based economic growth reached the bottom of the social pyramid. Furthermore, as the income of agriculture-dependent households grew, their demand for products and services also increased. This in turn led to bolstering of the consumption-driven growth of the economy. Additionally, a significant share of the inputs required for the burgeoning industrial sector of the country have also been sourced from the domestic agricultural sector.

Even amid the latest pandemic-induced economic slowdown (in FY2020-21), agriculture once again came to the fore as the main source of our economic growth. Recently (over the last year or so), we are once again facing significant macroeconomic challenges. The Bangladesh economy is indeed at a crossroads. On the one hand, there is optimism about graduation to a developing country within the next couple of years and becoming a trillion-dollar economy in another 10-15 years. On the other hand, there are the challenges resulting from the geopolitical instabilities as well as from the internal structural cleavages. Given this context, there is definitely a need to be further sensitive to the issues associated with the role of agriculture in our economy. We also need to be aware of agricultural transformations since independence, and the challenges on the way of agricultural development in the new context.

There is no denying the fact that the people, especially those belonging to the lower-income strata, are under serious pressure due to inflation (especially food inflation). At the same time, we must also acknowledge that Bangladesh as an economy has the capacity to ensure its food security. Thanks to consistent agricultural mechanisation and development of modern and climate-friendly agriculture over the last 10-15 years, we can surely have big ambitions about our agricultural transformation. For example, in Barisal division around 6 per cent of agricultural land has been lost due to urbanisation and other causes between 2014 and 2019. Yet, production of rice in this region has not decreased. Rather rice production has increased by 1.5 times owing to modern cultivation techniques and extension services.

GoB's Finance Division data shows that our food crop production has increased from 34 million tons to 43 million tons over the last decade. This year too we are expecting bumper growth of Aman rice. A recent newspaper report informs that in Kumilla, a farmer is expecting to harvest Aman worth Tk 20,000 against his Tk 8,000 investment. Harvests of other crops are also expected to be satisfactory. For example, in Sherpur, because of broad-based agricultural extension services including demonstration plots, the share of land engaged in mustard cultivation has more than doubled over the last five years. And production of mustard has increased even more (4 times). The trend is expected to continue this year as well. Given this backdrop, it will not be illogical to expect food inflation to come down significantly by the end of 2024 (food inflation was almost 10 per cent by the end of 2023). Of course, there has to be an intervention from the monetary policy as well to mop up additional liquidity created by the increased flow of both informal and formal remittances.

Certainly, we cannot expect to solve all our agricultural problems by increasing production alone. News from the market shows that food prices are not coming down despite having bumper harvests. On certain occasions, the prices remain high even after allowing imports. This is because the problems are less related to the field of cultivation and more to the marketing system.

These structural problems are in fact issues of agriculture economics. And in our country, agriculture economics most often does not enjoy due attention. Consequently, stakeholders most often end up falling short in explaining the prevailing socio-economic realities. I could share a most recent example. By the end of the last year (2023), the mass media reported that while food inflation was high all over the country, the ratio was higher in rural areas than the urban ones. As food is mainly grown in rural areas, many found explaining this high rural food inflation particularly difficult. The fact that they must have overlooked was income of rural households which have increased significantly. Consequently, their demand for food has changed significantly over the last 20 years. Not all the food products a rural household consumes today are produced in that area. They also have an additional demand for processed and/or packaged agri-products. Furthermore, most of the agriculture produce from any rural area ends up being exported to urban centers. Therefore, be it crops produced in other rural areas or processed agri-products, a large share of the agricultural products consumed by families in rural areas are now imported from outside that area (from urban centers). Indeed, the rural-urban connect is very robust now.

Given this context, it is now high time to emphasise the transformation of our agri-economy and map the challenges ahead. Therefore, I believe the book titled "Bangladesher Krishi Orthonitee: Bishoy o Bisleshon (Bangladesh's Agriculture Economics: Content and Analyses)" to be of special relevance in the current context. The book published by UPL has been edited by the first Emeritus Professor of the Agriculture University Dr. Abdus Sattar Mandal. Nineteen other Agriculture Economics Professors contributed chapters in the book. Such a book in Bangla is indeed rare. Based on the areas of agriculture economics focused in the book, the 21 articles have been segregated into four sections. The articles in the first section narrate the introduction, content, and evolution of agriculture economics as a discourse.

The second section of the book has articles that deal with the applied/practical sides of agriculture economics in the context of Bangladesh. The writers have covered both micro- and macro-managed issues here. Therefore, along with unit level management of agricultural farms they have covered large agricultural development projects and fiscal policy measures for agricultural development.

Commercial agriculture, technology, and statistical issues related to agriculture economics are dealt in the articles incorporated in the third section of the book. These articles have focused separately on different issues/challenges associated with modern agricultural practices especially in Bangladesh. I have found the article on small-scale milk farms and the one on the use of renewable energy in agriculture to be highly interesting. This is because our macroeconomic success relies on SMEs to a significant extent, and shifting from fossil fuel-based cultivation to renewable energy is pivotal for sustainability in the long run.

Finally, the fourth section of the book has articles that analyse the structural challenges of our agricultural sector. The recommendations and policy suggestions laid out here should be of special interest to the government and non-government policymakers. The two articles from this chapter that I believe worth mentioning are the one about price supports for farmers and the other about agricultural insurance. We have been strongly advocating for these policy measures for a long time. And the international development partners are also interested in these policy issues.

I heartily express my gratitude to the contributors of this book firstly as they have opted to write this in Bangla and secondly (and perhaps more importantly) because they have used very lucid and communicative language to share their ideas. The ideas here have been laid out simply. Hence, this book will not only be useful to learners and researchers, but also provide food for thought for stakeholders from other walks of life ranging from administrators to policymakers. Along with ensuring future food security of the country, agriculture will continue to play its role as the vanguard of the macroeconomy. Indeed, more such books in Bangla should be written by academic and policymakers to strengthen the discourse on inclusive growth spearheaded by agricultural sector.​
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Our agricultural heritage​

MUHAMMAD ZAMIR
Published :​
Feb 18, 2024 22:00
Updated :​
Feb 19, 2024 21:22

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A farmer shows bundles of newly harvested rice in a paddy field in Nilphamari, Bangladesh, on May 17, 2022 —Xinhua Photo
A careful historical survey (carried out under the leadership of Bangla Academy, Dhaka around 2002) pertaining to the agriculture process in Bengal over nearly the last three thousand years revealed that initially, a larger number of people in Bengal, like the rest of South and Southeast Asia were nomads. However, things appear to have started to change from about the 7the century BC when the population realised that it was easier for their livestock as well as for themselves if they had settled habitation. In this context agriculture and looking after domestic animals were preferred as it not only provided security but also steady food supply. It also spared the population the problem of searching for food in the surrounding forests which were filled with wild animals. This led to the human population in ancient Bengal pursuing not only agriculture but animal husbandry.

I was also involved with this exercise as I was at that time writing a book entitled "Anthology of Bengali Proverbs and Bachans" which was subsequently published by Bangla Academy. It related to the evolving culture and the impact created on this aspect through proverbs that had been generated in Bengal from different sources.

That included Khana, who is still remembered in the rural areas of Bangladesh and also parts of West Bengal for her adages that related to agriculture. My attention to her had been drawn by my parents when I was in school. However, her tremendous importance within the context of the Bengal cultural and agricultural dimension was revealed later by Bangabandhu after his return to Bangladesh, a war-ravaged country on January10, 1972, when he reiterated her contribution in the field of agriculture during his efforts to reconstruct Bangladesh.

It was this denotation that induced me to try and understand our agricultural heritage.

Research led to the discovery that from agriculture, in ancient Bengal, the inhabitants learned not only to live together as a group but also to develop technology for maximising the fruits of agriculture. With each step gradually emerged new tools more suitable for better agriculture. With this came the concept of ownership of land and professional farmers, then came the division of society into various classes depending on the practical superiority of different professional groups- and with that came also class differences and feuds.

It is also evident that there was an influence of agriculture on the Vedas. In the Rigveda, there are references to agriculture in different supplications to Indra whose help is sought in the looking after of domestic animals and in the prevention of these animals falling prey to tigers. Similar references to agriculture are also found in the Atharvaveda and also in the Chaturveda.
Agricultural implements were regarded with great respect, In poetry, special accolades and titles were given to the keepers of various agricultural accessories. The plough was associated with Krishna's elder brother Balaram. Similarly, Vishwanitra and Parashar were also farmers. It may be recalled here that Parashar is credited with the first systematic and detailed collection of ancient Indian philosophical sayings on ancient formats of agriculture and collection and preservation of different kinds of seeds -(Lahari,Durgadas: "Prithivir Itihash", Volume 5). It would be interesting to note here that while putting together his collection, Parashar indicated that at no time should seeds be stored near any kind of oil, salt or any flame. He has also noted that a careful farmer 'can grow gold and an ignorant farmer will become poor'. He has also discussed the importance of adding animal waste and other things as fertilizer in the soil to improve its fertility.

The above observations indicate that the principles of agriculture in India were ancient and present even before the arrival of the Aryans. When they arrived, they sometimes according to anthropological records modified the system and also at times improved the technical aspects.

It is difficult to find precise historical records to determine exactly when people of Bengal started their agricultural profession.

However, it is clear that it was already flourishing about 700 BC. In this context it would be useful to mention that different excavations were carried out in 24 Parganas. Mednipore, Murshidabad and in Birbhum--in present day West Bengal--indicate clear evidence of a continuing civilisation rich with agricultural knowledge (The Eastern Anthropologist, Vol. 31, No.4, 1978, pp. 543-555).

One thing, however, appears to be clear. The tendency for Bengal to have a large population is probably due to its favourable conditions which facilitated agriculture. It may be pointed out that this fertile region also encouraged different tribes and ethnic stock to migrate to Bengal from surrounding regions. Along with such migration came various influences on the principles of agriculture and proverbs related to agriculture.

Different names for agricultural products and spices also entered the Bengali language- from the Santhal dialect. Similarly, words like 'Golmarich', 'Komola' and 'Karpash' also found their way into Bengal.

Some areas were also associated with some of the agricultural products predominant in these regions. North Bengal's ancient name was 'Poundo' which means sugarcane (which grows in abundance in that area) and 'Gour' came to be known as such because of the large production of 'Gour' (molasses) in that area.

Excavations carried out in Chandraketugarh in 24 Parganas, in West Bengal have provided terracotta samples of a flourishing agricultural pattern which included the presence of coconut, betel nut and 'tal' trees. Their presence is also found in different coins discovered in that region, minted during the Maurya and Kushan periods. Similarly, there are references to the cultivation of mustard and various kinds of lentil and the need for irrigation.

Importance of agriculture and paddy cultivation in Bengal is also clear in the special emphasis given in 'Durga Puja' amongst the Hindu community. Durga, according to Hindu mythology, was the wife of the Hindu god Shiva who was considered for agriculture. Durga also came to be known as 'Annadatatri' or the provider of food.

In fact, historians have mentioned that in the ancient times religion in Bengal was mostly associated with agriculture. Some historians have gone on to also say that in ancient Bengal there was love for deities because the feeling was that they needed to be pacified to obtain better crops and consequently more food. This attitude is still present among the tribal populations living in the South Eastern parts of Bengal.

Sometimes, even today we come across rituals where before starting the ploughing of the land, offerings like paddy, durva grass and turmeric are made to deities (Gilbert Slatter, "The Dravidian Element in Indian Culture '' New Delhi, 1978). It would also be interesting to note that in certain parts of South Eastern Bengal Laxmi and Shiva were associated with efforts to boost the agricultural economy. Similarly, in the 'Jhum' format of cultivation in the Hill Tracts region, the tribal population often made supplications to deities before undertaking planting of crops. They did not use bullocks and ploughs but mostly sharp sticks to dig holes in the ground. Their form of cultivation was rudimentary and consequently there was presence of simple crops.

Bengali culture from the earliest times has been greatly influenced by agriculture-- the most important profession of the Bengali speaking population most of whom lived in the rural areas. Consequently, the psyche of the rural folk and their basic philosophy of life revolved around nature, seasons and the impact of agriculture on their socio-economic lives. In Bengal, in ancient times, agriculture, it needs to be understood, related to simple crops like paddy, cotton, coconut, betel nut and banana.

In addition, researchers have also found references to farming of jute which has been used for a long time not only for making ropes but also for woven garments. Its sticks were also used as firewood.

Before concluding, one needs to definitely observe that the sayings of Khana were formulated nearly eight hundred years ago at the time when agriculture and dairy farming were both considered important professions. It was also apparent that during that period, both rice and banana were important items of daily life. In this context it also needs to be mentioned that while Khana referred many times in her adages to cultivating gourds of different kinds-- aubergine, pumpkin, green chillies, parsnip, radish and bitter gourd-- there is no reference to tomatoes. On the other hand, Khana specially singled out two most common items as desirable-- mango and jackfruit.

In her Bachans, Khana repeatedly refers to particular types of livestock and poultry, cows, bullocks, goats, ducks and pigeons. They figure prominently in matters pertaining to economic livelihood. Interestingly, there are only a few references to buffalo, elephants, horses and dogs. Professor Ali Nowaz suggested that in all probability there was no reference to chicken by Khana because chicken had still not been domesticated. There is, however, some disagreement on this matter among some other agricultural historians.
 

Up to 30% of crops wasted, says agriculture minister​


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Banks usually disburse a major portion of their annual farm loans during September-December when farmers spend busy time harvesting boro paddy and winter vegetables. Photo: Star/File

Around 30 percent of crops are wasted at different stages after harvest and reducing it would contribute to improving food security, said Agriculture Minister Md Abdus Shahid yesterday.

Cutting waste of crops is very important, he said at a session on "food and water storage and prevention of food waste" at the Food and Agricultural Organization's (FAO) 37th session of the Regional Conference for Asia and the Pacific (APRC) in Colombo, Sri Lanka, according to a statement.

He said Bangladesh's government was providing up to 70 percent subsidy to farmers for farm machinery.

He added that the government had taken initiatives to build multipurpose storage facilities, combined storage facilities accommodating multiple crops, and provide refrigerated vehicles for transport of fresh vegetables.

In order to prevent food wastage and damage, huge investment is needed in harvesting, threshing, transportation, and storage, he said, stressing the need for public-private partnerships. He said the FAO could help Bangladesh in this regard.​
 

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Bangladesh Agricultural University​

Scientists eye climate-resilient crop varieties​


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A group of scientists of Bangladesh Agricultural University are working to develop new varieties of climate-resilient crops, including rice, maize and tomatoes, using a modern greenhouse, first of its kind at BAU.

The scientists, led by Prof ABM Arif Hasan Khan of the Department of Agrometeorology, are collaborating with the Department of Agricultural Extension in a joint venture titled "Agrometeorological Information Systems Development Project" since last year.​

A greenhouse is a transparent room, where various natural factors like heat, temperature, light, water, salinity and humidity are controlled and the effects of these factors on different crops are analysed and explained.

As a result, the production of any crop can be continued throughout the year in a greenhouse. The greenhouse at BAU has eight common rooms, low and temperature rooms for research, a central room from where the amount of water and fertilisers for different crops planted in different rooms can be regulated, controlled and monitored.

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NRI Crop Technology -- a sensor-based equipment imported from Turkey -- delivers nutrients to each plant as needed. The research on crops' tolerance to adverse environmental conditions is being done by altering the characteristics of light including intensity and wavelength, temperature, water and salt tolerance of the seedlings planted externally through the device, the researchers said.

Prof Arif Khan said, "Agricultural productivity is largely dependent on several meteorological variables including temperature, solar radiation, hours of exposure to sunlight, lengths of winter and monsoon seasons. Since Bangladesh is a climate-vulnerable country, these climatic variables are gradually becoming extreme here. The highest and lowest temperatures are changing every year. In this situation, developing climate-resilient crop varieties has become important and scientists must engage to this end."

Prof Dr AKM Zakir Hossain, a member of the research team, said, "The new greenhouse will help develop different crop varieties that are tolerant to adverse weather conditions."

Prof Dr Aslam Ali, another team member, said, "Different crops have different requirements of nutrients for growth and development. The sensor-based operations deliver a balanced amount of nutrients to each plant. Right now, research is being conducted to develop eco-friendly varieties by changing the light, wavelength, temperature, water content, salinity level, etc externally through the machine."

Tanjim Ahmed, a postgraduate student engaged in the project, said, "Developing a heat-stress tolerant maize variety has been a successful outcome of the research. This variety can be cultivated in the comparatively warmer regions of the country."

Zaber Sabuj, another postgraduate student, said, "Work is ongoing to develop rice varieties that are tolerant to both salinity and high temperature. Once developed, these will help continue rice cultivation even in salinity prone 19 districts in the south."

Another researcher, Sirajum Monira, said it may become possible to produce winter tomato varieties even in summer through greenhouse method.

Postgraduate student Farzana Akter is focusing on finding out which rice varieties expel less methane in higher temperature regions.

The scientists said this modern greenhouse has opened the door for advanced agricultural research, and hoped that within five years, the outcomes of this research could reach the farmers' door.​
 
Glasshouse Indoor Commercial Farming is getting quite common in Bangladesh, but this was the first one.
 

Little takeaways from tiresome WTO MC13​

ASJADUL KIBRIA, FROM ABU DHABI
Published :​
Mar 03, 2024 00:27
Updated :​
Mar 03, 2024 00:27

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Graduating LDCs get little to laugh about, nor even guaranteed continuity of market-access privileges, as prolonged parleys at the WTO ministerial ended with late-night declaration encoding developed-developing divide over trade rules.

Extended until midnight Friday, the 13th Ministerial Conference (MC13) of the World Trade Organization (WTO) announced its conclusion formally early hours of Saturday in Abu Dhabi when the whole Arab city was fast asleep.

With a limited number of ministers and delegates, the brightly lighted Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) looked almost deserted while few journalists and civil-society members were seen struggling for decoding the stipulated outcome of the ministerial declaration and decisions adopted by the members.

As there was no consensus among the developed and leading developing countries on two critical issues, agriculture and fisheries subsidies, no deal was reached thereof either.

India and some other developing nations strongly pushed for permanent solutions on public stockholding (PSH) of foods, but to no avail in the end. The United States (US) and the European Union (EU) duo wouldn't budge an inch allowing any compromise on the issue, terming it a trade-distorting measure. Thus, the matter remained unresolved, meaning India should continue to enjoy the so-called 'peace clause' agreed in the Bali ministerial a decade ago.

Indian commerce minister Piyusah Goyal, who actively participated in the negations and fought until the last minute for reaching a permanent solution, talked to journalists informally before the formal closing of the meet. He was of the view that, for India, peace clause is also enough to ensure food security.

The second phase of the fisheries subsidies agreement that provides for a ban on subsidies on overcapacity and overfishing was also not approved due to strong difference among the countries. The first phase of the agreement, adopted at the MC12 in Geneva, prohibits government support for illegal, unreported and unregulated, fishing, the fishing of overfished stocks and fishing on unregulated high seas.

The e-commerce moratorium will, however, continue for two more years despite opposition from India and some other countries. It means there will be no customs duties on electronic transmission during the period. Developed countries heavily backed the moratorium.

On dispute-settlement reform, members agreed to work for 'having a fully and well-functioning dispute- settlement system accessible to all members by 2024.'

The graduating LDCs, including Bangladesh, get three years as an extra time after their graduation to adjust with the WTO rules and provisions regarding the dispute-settlement system. They will also enjoy LDC-specific technical assistance and capacity building provided by the WTO for three years after the graduation.

There is, however, no binding commitment on the continuation of the preferential market access for the graduating LDCs.

"We reaffirm the provisions of special and differential treatment for developing Members and LDCs as an integral part of the WTO and its agreements," says the MC13 declaration.

Special and differential treatment in WTO agreements should be precise, effective and operational, adds the readout.

The WTO Director-General, Okonjo-Iweala, in her concluding remarks, said: "We have worked hard this week. We have achieved some important things and we have not managed to complete others.

Nevertheless, we moved those pieces of work in an important way. At the same time, we have delivered some milestone achievements for the WTO and laid the groundwork for more," she added.

At the concluding session, Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade of the UAE and MC13 Chair, thanked members for their active engagement during the conference.

"There is virtually no agreement on almost anything," said Auckland University Emeritus Professor Jane Kelsey who attended the conference as a guest of the conference chair.

"This follows a pattern of failures over successive ministerial," she told the media in a brief, but highly critical, statement.

"The WTO continues its steady decline, no longer just on life support but nearing death's door," says the swinging readout, incidentally at a time when there have been pleas for rebuilding a world trade system felicitous with current milieus.

The MC13 of the WTO started on Monday with trade ministers and senior officials of 164 members joining. As they had failed to reach consensus on critical issues during these days, the conference extended to Friday.

An eight-member Bangladesh delegation headed by Ahasanul Islam Titu, State Minister for Commerce, participated in the global trade meet. The conference brought together around 4,000 ministers, senior trade officials and other delegates from the WTO's 164 members and observers as well as representatives from civil society, business and the global media.

[The writer was in Abu Dhabi at the invitation of the Secretariat of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES), Geneva.]
 

Crop insurance: it's long overdue
ATIQUL KABIR TUHIN
Published :
Mar 02, 2024 21:46
Updated :
Mar 03, 2024 21:48

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A recent news report highlighting the plight of Towhidul Islam, a marginal farmer in the Godagari municipal area of Rajshahi, serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of farmers in Bangladesh due to unpredictable weather patterns. Because of a heavy rainfall during Aman harvesting period in 2023, Towhidul lost almost his entire Aman crop and the Tk. 2 lakh he had invested in cultivating his 15 bighas of land. This example alone underscores the urgent need for effective agricultural risk mitigation measures, particularly in a country where agriculture plays a significant role in the economy, contributing over 11.3 per cent to the GDP and involving more than 37 per cent of the population.

Agriculture sector has long been vulnerable to natural disasters like flooding, cyclones, and droughts, which disrupt farming activities and may cause substantial crop and economic losses. Climate change has aggravated the situation further.

To address these issues, weather index-based crop insurance can be a potential solution, offering a mechanism to mitigate weather-related uncertainties by providing timely compensation based on objective weather data.

About five years back, such a scheme was piloted by the state-owned Sadharan Bima Corporation (SBC) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB). It received overwhelming response from farmers in three districts where the project was implemented, Rajshahi, Sirajganj and Noakhali. Its aim was to provide financial compensation to farmers against their losses caused by adverse weather conditions, thereby promoting sustainable growth in agriculture, reducing poverty, and maintaining macro-financial stability.

Despite the potential benefits, one of the major hurdles in the implementation of such insurance schemes, however, has been the lack of government subsidies and support. The Ministry of Agriculture has shown reluctance towards endorsing weather index-based crop insurance, citing reasons such as concerns over undue claim settlements and existing subsidies on agriculture. While subsidies are essential for promoting private-sector agricultural insurance and ensuring affordability for farmers, it should not be viewed as a hindrance, but rather as an investment in mitigating production risks and safeguarding the livelihoods of millions of farmers.

The case of Towhidul Islam highlights the devastating consequences of not having adequate risk mitigation measures in place. His struggle to recover from crop losses and the burden of having to repay loans taken from local micro-financiers paint a grim picture of the challenges faced by farmers. It is imperative that the government, policymakers, and relevant stakeholders prioritise the establishment of effective crop insurance mechanisms that are accessible, transparent, and sustainable.

The experience of other countries, such as India with its Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), demonstrates the potential benefits of well-designed and subsidised crop insurance schemes in providing financial security and peace of mind to farmers. PMFBY focuses on making premium costs accessible to farmers through government subsidies, leveraging existing infrastructure, promoting investments by insurance companies, and ensuring efficient application processing through technology adoption.

Bangladesh can learn from India's tried and proven effective experience and tailor its approach to suit its unique agricultural landscape and challenges.

Furthermore, efforts should be made to address past shortcomings and improve the effectiveness of insurance products. This includes enhancing flood management strategies, innovating adaptation tools, and ensuring the transparency and efficiency of claim settlement processes. By addressing these issues and investing in resilient agricultural practices, Bangladesh can better prepare its farmers to withstand the growing threats posed by climate variability and extreme weather events.

The story of Towhidul Islam - and there are many more like his - serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive and sustainable agricultural risk management strategies in Bangladesh. A well-designed insurance programme can offer much-needed security to farmers against the adverse impacts of natural calamities, fostering long-term agricultural sustainability and economic development.

Overall, a successful implementation of crop insurance in Bangladesh requires concerted efforts from policymakers, insurers, and international partners to overcome challenges and ensure the resilience and prosperity of the agricultural sector and rural communities. It is time for taking decisive action against the unpredictable forces of nature and protect the unsung heroes of the economy - the farmers.​
 

Replenishing rice, farm products stock​

BD deal with Myanmar's pvt sector soon for supplies​

Rice price on steep rise in recent months​

SYFUL ISLAM
Published :​
Mar 07, 2024 00:55
Updated :​
Mar 07, 2024 00:55

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Bangladesh moves fast preparing a deal document for procuring rice and farm products from the war-torn eastern neighbour Myanmar to replenish stock, officials said, as market keeps gaining heat.

The Ministry of Commerce, after a recent meeting, shared a draft memorandum of understanding with the stakeholders and asked them to give opinion by March 10.

The MoU will be signed between the state-run Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB) and the Myanmar Rice Federation (MRF), an umbrella body of Myanmar's private-sector rice industry.

Commerce officials have said by signing the accord Myanmar also wants to supply a number of farm products to Bangladesh apart from exporting rice. The inventory includes ginger, garlic and onions -- the spice items seen so pricey here.

Myanmar itself prepared the first draft of the MoU and dispatched to Bangladesh last October for review. Later, in February this year again, the other side sent another draft to Bangladesh after a further brush-up, officials said.

Sources said the meeting, held late last month at commerce ministry, decided that the MoU will be signed soon and so the opinions from the stakeholders need to be available "as soon as possible".

Moreover, the stakeholders had been asked not to go for 'excessive correction' of the deal details so that the draft could be finalised shortly.

At the meeting, the TCB chairman also wanted to interpolate into the MoU document a provision of 'export' to Myanmar by the trading arm of government -- TCB.

Sources said the meeting also decided to hold a virtual parley with the ministry concerned of Myanmar to fix a date for the signing of the trade memorandum.

A commerce ministry official told the FE that Myanmar forwarded a list of farm produce it wants to supply to Bangladesh. The Ministry of Agriculture has been asked to check the list and food ministry to recheck it further before giving opinion.

Chairman of the TCB Brigadier-General Md Ariful Hassan told the FE Wednesday that having a formal deal with Myanmar would open a new window for the corporation to get necessary farm products "easily and quickly".

"The MoU may help get products also at cheaper rates," he said about the trade with the next-door neighbour.

The government now supplies food-grains and some more essential commodities to 10 million families at subsidised rates to help mitigate the impacts of inflationary pressure on their small purses.

Data from Myanmar Rice Federation show that sprawling reclusive country exported 2.2 million tonnes of rice in the fiscal year 2023 (ended in March 2023).

Bangladesh had signed a government-to-government MoU with Myanmar in September 2022 under which annually the war-torn neighbour will export some 250,000 tonnes of rice and 50,000 tonnes of parboiled rice from 2022 to 2027.

Officials say after the signing of deal with Myanmar's private sector, Bangladesh will get more opportunity to import more rice and other farm products to feed local demand, which is substantially augmented through the sheltering of over a million tossed-off people from neighbouring province of Myanmar.​
 

Women outnumber men in farming sector​


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More women are joining the agriculture sector in Bangladesh as their job opportunities in industries, especially garment factories, have stagnated and men switch to non-farm sectors amid increased mechanisation of farming activities.

Currently, 18.4 million women toil in the agriculture sector, making up 58 percent of the total workforce in the key area of the economy. On the other hand, the number of men involved in farm activities stands at 13.55 million, according to the Labour Force Survey of the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS).

In the last two and a half decades, the share of male workers in agriculture, which also includes fisheries, livestock and forestry, dropped 13 percent from 15.58 million whereas employment in the farm sector doubled to nearly 32 million during the period.

This gap was filled by an increased entry of women. Since 1995-96, women's employment in farm jobs jumped 17 times.

"Due to the expansion of the agricultural sub-sectors in rural areas, women's participation has increased significantly, not only in numbers but also in the sub-sectors," said Sharmind Neelormi, a professor of economics at Jahangirnagar University.

There are some agriculture sub-sectors where women dominate, namely poultry, dairy, and cultivating commercial vegetables.

Besides, she said, there is a lack of jobs for women in sectors other than garment, the biggest employer of female workers.

"Often, women are offered jobs where they can be paid less than men. They are treated as less paying job-holders," said Prof Neelormi.

According to the economist, in the garment sector, a piece of labour-saving technology has been used for a long period. As a result, new job opportunities are shrinking although the number of women in the workforce is increasing.

"As they don't have enough job opportunities in the garment and other sectors, women have to be involved in agriculture or agri-aligned jobs even when the employment is not lucrative."

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File Photo: Star


Prof Neelormi thinks poverty has pushed women towards farming.

BBS data showed that the female labour force participation rate increased steadily over time. In 1995-96, the rate was 15.8 percent. Two and half decades later, it grew to 43 percent.

The farming sector absorbed 74 percent of the total employed female workers of 24.86 million in 2022.

Sayema Haque Bidisha, a professor of economics at the University of Dhaka, said a good number of male workers have migrated to the urban areas and it is not always possible for women to leave their households for various reasons.

She cited that women's participation in the garment sector has declined to 65 percent from 85 percent in the last one decade.

In a paper on the determinants and changes in women's participation in agriculture in Bangladesh from 1988 to 2008, noted economists WMH Jaim and Mahabub Hossain said the shift in participation of male labourers from agriculture to non-farm activities has created a tremendous worker shortage in the agricultural sector.

"This largely explains the gradual increase of female participation in agriculture."

The paper which was based on a study that found that in the non-farm sector, the opportunities for jobs for the male labour force have increased over time. For the female labour force, it has decreased to some extent.

Besides, higher agriculture mechanisation, which refers to the use of machines for tillage, irrigation and threshing of crops, is another reason.


The involvement of adult women increased in livestock and poultry production and homestead gardening. And the credit support from NGOs and microfinance institutions has facilitated this change.

However, women labourers in the farm sector face wage discrimination. Their workloads have also increased because of traditional gender roles since they have to perform some socially-determined gender-specific household activities like taking care of children and the elderly. This means they have to shoulder the compounded pressure of productive and reproductive work.

Rushidan Islam Rahman, a former research director at the Bangladesh Institute of Development Studies, said the growth of women's employment in agriculture can't be an effective route to gender equality for two reasons.

First, it resulted from a reduction in the absolute number of women employed in the industrial sector. Second, women's overcrowding in self-employment in agriculture without their increased ownership of land or agricultural assets led to a sharp decline in productivity.

These forces led to a decline in the real wage of women and a rise in the male-female wage ratio as shown by the LFS 2022, she said.

"Such changes imply that women's employment in agriculture is distress-driven. To reverse the situation, there is no option but to create employment opportunities with higher productivity through labour-intensive industrialisation."

Sadika Haque, a professor of agricultural economics at the Bangladesh Agricultural University, said the work hours of women in the farm sector are increasing while it is decreasing for men.


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Farmers using a self-made tool to water their watermelon plants in Gangarampur village of Khulna’s Batiaghata upazila. Due to the high salinity of the soil in the coastal region, the farmers go to the nearest deep tube wells -- sometimes kilometres away from their farmland -- from where they get fresh water through pipes. They then attach the pipes to small wicker baskets, and the water flows from the gaps in those. Farmers have been using this method to ensure the equal spread of water over each spot. Photo: Habibur Rahman/Star

However, because of the engagement in the farm sector, women's sleeping time has declined as they have to perform household chores, she said in a recent study.

"Household tasks should be done by all irrespective of gender to lessen the pressure on women. A change in mindset and attitude is necessary."

The increased share of women in the labour force, however, does not mean gender equality and empowerment of women in the real sense.

Prof Sadika noted that though there is a provision of land rights for women, they, in the true sense, can't exercise their rights and take control of the property because of social norms and attitudes.

"This needs to be changed."

She says it is necessary to ensure women's access to and control over resources.

"A change in social attitudes is required to guarantee gender equality. The role of the state is vital here."

In a write-up, Dirk Reinermann, director of the International Development Association Resource Mobilisation of the World Bank, said the global fight for gender equality rages on. Women and girls around the world still face many barriers to equal rights and opportunities.

"But we know that a world with equal opportunity for all is not only a matter of fairness and justice, it is also essential for sustainable development."​
 

Agriculture saves the day for the country​

Published :​
Feb 19, 2024 21:40
Updated :​
Feb 20, 2024 21:24


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That the projection for Bangladesh's gross domestic product (GDP) growth for the fiscal year 2022-23 was scaled down by both the International Monetary Fund and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) is understandable.

The IMF lowered it from its original 6.5 per cent to 6.0 per cent and the ADB from 6.5 per cent to 6.2 per cent. But belying those projections the GDP growth ultimately slipped to 5.78 per cent, by the final reckoning of the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS). The rate could dip still further but for the appreciable performance by the country's agriculture sector contrary to the decline in contribution by the economy's two main driving engines.

Service sector with a share of 51 per cent and manufacturing sector with a share of 37.7 per cent in the economy, have faltered in the immediate past financial year.


Sure enough, Bangladesh with its limited geographic space cannot compete with the two larger sectors either in GDP contribution or earning foreign exchange. But yet it serves as an anchor to the country's economic prosperity. How? This is quite simple: first, if the country produces the staples to meet its own requirement, it can act as the platform for the country's industry and service sector to launch programmes suitable for it. Second, the resourcefulness and adaptability farmers here have demonstrated so far have been responsible for the agriculture ministry to carry forward its innovative and technology-based agricultural programmes to a new level.

Third, there has been a kind of crop revolution thanks to the agriculture scientists who have tirelessly developed not only rice varieties but also introduced exotic crops and fruits through cross-breeding, mutation and genomic selection. The Germplasm Centre at the Bangladesh Agriculture University (BAU) alone has released as many as 70 varieties of fruits by this time. Unsurprisingly, farmers in some areas have opted for cultivation of cash crops including flowers instead of paddy.

Such efforts lead to the diversification of agriculture and consequently export of both agricultural produce and products has been growing over the past few years. But due to some institutional and infrastructural constraints, the export of agricultural goods could not reach the optimal level. Now that the government has made a crucial decision to set up a national quarantine authority, a prerequisite for compliance with the World Trade Organisation's (WTO's) Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Agreement, the move will help boost this particular trade. But this has to be complemented with the advanced system of packaging, cooling facility in transports for reaping the full benefits.

Farmers and agricultural scientists together have done a commendable job but unfortunately the fruits of their labour are eaten up by coteries who serve as middlemen in between source of production and marketing. Particularly, farmers are the most deprived lot in this country. If the ministry of agriculture is serious enough, it can eliminate the middlemen from the marketing process by entering into sustainable agreements with the Bangladesh Road Transport Corporation (BRTC) for it to take up the responsibility of transportation of at least the perishable agricultural produce from crop field to urban markets. The BRTC has entered into similar agreements with other ministries and departments to maximise its profit by deploying its pool of trucks for transportation of their goods. Both BRTC and farmers will derive mutual benefits from such a move.​
 

Gender wage gap still persists in agriculture​


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Female farmhands engaged in weeding on a piece of land growing Boro season paddy in Kuptola village of Gaibandha sadar upazila recently. Here women get Tk 300 working from 8:00am to 5:00pm whereas men Tk 400 to Tk 500, a stark reminder of persistent inequalities between men and women in the workplace. According to UN Women, the gender pay gap stands at 20 percent globally, meaning women workers earn 80 percent of what men do. And the cumulative effect of pay disparities has real, daily negative consequences for women, their families, and society, especially during crises. Photo: Mostafa Shabuj

Farmers in Gobindaganj upazila of Gaibandha are currently engaging labourers to weed their fields of Boro season paddy ahead of the upcoming harvesting period.

Interestingly, there are more women working in the fields than men, indicating a major paradigm shift in the once male-dominated agriculture industry.​

But despite the narrowing gender gap, the significant wage gap between men and women in this line of work still persists, with male workers earning around Tk 450 per day while females make Tk 300.
As such, industry people say the prevalence of women in fields suggests that landowners have a financial motive to lower costs by hiring the comparatively cheaper female workers.

This is because the lower wages paid to female labourers allow landowners to enjoy the advantage of being able to hire a greater number of workers, thereby reducing the time needed to complete the work.

The wage discrepancy is not a new phenomenon as women have historically been paid less than men across all industries. And even when overall wages increase, the gap remains the same, they said.

Rina Begum, who works at a field in the Kuptula area of Gaibandha to support her family of five, said she was afraid to speak out against income inequality.

"If I speak against income inequality, then there will be fewer employment opportunities for me," she added.

Roshna Bewa, a 60-year-old widow, said she has been working in fields across Gaibandha for two decades since her husband's passing, with the stagnant wage gap not giving her any respite.

Abu Bakar, a landowner in Sadullapur upazila, employs four women for weeding. According to him, the wages paid to women are the market standard.

Although the wage gap is financially beneficial for landowners, it is not helping women make progress in terms of equality in the agriculture industry.

Halima Begum, who works for Bakar, said societal norms dictate that men's and women's wages cannot be equal as men are perceived to be stronger and more productive.

"This flawed perception is one of the reasons we get paid less," she added.

Rozia Begum, another worker at Bakar's field, echoed the same. "Our only option is to go along with this discriminatory practice as the alternative of having no work is even more bleak," she said.

Sadeka Halim, vice-chancellor of Jagannath University, said the agriculture sector employs the highest number of women although they do not have equal rights or control over land.

A portion of them look after land on behalf of absentee landlords and there is also a good portion of female-headed households, she added.

Sadeka, a former dean of the social sciences faculty at Dhaka University, said women have made advances in the formal sector.

However, 46 percent of women still work in the informal sector, where there are no rules and regulations and it is mainly the employers who determine the terms and conditions, she said.

She said female workers do not take breaks like men but they are discriminated against as they lack a focal point to raise a voice in their favour.

"This is true for women agricultural workers too. They are very much voiceless. They do not have any organisation or group to raise their voice for them to protect and ensure their rights," said Sadeka.

"The labour ministry should engage all stakeholders and work for ensuring the rights of workers in the informal sector too," she said.

Sharmind Neelormi, professor of economics at Jahangirnagar University, blamed pay inequality on social norms that considered women's labour to be less efficient.

She said the wage disparity between male and male workers has narrowed little over the decades.

"Previously, only meals were provided. The margin was over 50 percent before in the 1990s, but it is now down to 20-25 percent," she explained.

But the situation has changed as the use of manual labour has decreased thanks to agricultural mechanisation. If the use of such machinery rises, the gap will be reduced, she added.

Sadika Haque, professor of agricultural economics at Bangladesh Agricultural University, says women work in crop fields and play a major role in production and post-harvest management.

In an article on women in agriculture and their empowerment in a book titled "Bangladesher Krishi Orthoniti", she, citing research findings, said out of 23 stages from rice production to storing, women participate in 17 stages.

She, however, said women workers in agriculture face wage discrimination, getting Tk 42 lower than their male counterparts a day.

The daily average wage of a female farm worker is Tk 388, she said in the book published in 2022.

Talking to The Daily Star yesterday, Sadika said the government should form a policy for farm workers to ensure fair wages for them regardless of gender.

She said there was a perception among employers and men that women workers do less work than men.

"This is a wrong perception. Rather, women work sincerely as long as they stay in the workplace," said Sadika.

"Awareness of employers is also necessary, as is the need for change in social attitudes towards women workers," she said, adding that steps must also be taken to protect women workers from harassment.

Ensuring education for women is necessary to enhance their skills too, added Sadika.​
 

Agri export suffers sharpest decline in 7 years​


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The export of agricultural products, including vegetables, fruits and dry food, decreased 26.96 per cent in the first eight months of the current financial year, the sharpest decline in seven years, official figures showed.

Agricultural products fetched $623.18 million in July-February of 2022-23, which was $853 million in the same eight-month period of 2021-22, according to data from the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB).​

This was the sharpest decline in seven years. It rose 28.36 per cent in July-February of 2021-22.

The sharp export slowdown is threatening Bangladesh's increasing earnings from the selling of agricultural products in the external markets.

The shipment went past the $1-billion mark for the first time in 2020-21 when exporters fetched $1.03 billion. The momentum continued in the following fiscal year when the earnings rose to $1.16 billion, according to the EPB.

Exporters blame the higher raw material costs and buyers' reluctance to procure products from Bangladesh at the escalated prices for the decline.

Owing to higher cargo fares and freight costs, local exporters themselves are also showing a lack of interest in selling fresh farm produce in the overseas markets, they said.

Mohammad Shahadat Hossain, assistant general manager for exports at Kazi Food Industries Limited, said: "Due to the increase in the price of raw materials, buyers are not agreeing to the new price. Our prices are also much higher than in the competing countries. So, we are losing markets."

At the same time, the profit margin has also decreased, he claimed.

Firms exported frozen vegetables, fruits and processed foods to 12 countries, including Saudi Arabia, Italy, France, the United Kingdom and Ireland.

"Although the quality of our products is better than competitors', Bangladesh is lagging behind due to higher prices," Hossain added.

Mizanur Rahman, proprietor of Need Agro Foods Limited, said the cost of production had increased by 35 per cent. "When the new price is sent to buyers, they don't want to place orders. As a result, orders have decreased."

Need Agro Foods exports bakery products and spices to Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

Rahman said competitor countries such as India could sell products at prices that are lower than quoted by Bangladeshi companies. Even Pakistan is selling products at lower prices than Bangladesh.

Square Food and Beverage Ltd usually exports aromatic rice, spices, mustard oil and snacks to the Middle East, the United States, Canada and various European countries.

Rezaul Karim, assistant manager of the international marketing department of the company, said the government has stopped the export of aromatic rice since July 2022 to keep the local rice market stable.

"So, we can't export aromatic rice now. This has a negative impact on our overall exports."

Rice accounts for about 30 per cent of the export value of Square Food and Beverage.

Debasish Singha, head of business at Danish Biscuit, owned by Partex Star Group, said the company's goods exports fell by nearly 20 per cent in July-February due to rising prices and the ongoing global economic slowdown.

It ships products to 54 countries.

A top official of an export-oriented company, said some exporters used to show higher receipts in their documents in order to reap more benefits from the government's incentives.

"After the issue came to the notice of the government, the misuse has reduced. This could be one of the main factors for the decline in exports," he said.

The government provides a 20 per cent incentive for the export of agricultural products.

SM Jahangir Hossain, president of the Bangladesh Fruits, Vegetables and Allied Products Exporters' Association, said freight costs have gone up. So, importers, mainly in the Middle East, are showing a lack of interest to buy fresh farm produce from Bangladesh.

"In the last six months, airlines have hiked cargo fares at will," he said, adding that the air freight cost has shot up 40 per cent over the last one year.​
 

Paradox of agricultural mechanisation
Abdul Bayes | Published: 00:00, Mar 13,2024

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— LightCastle Partners

THE story of the ‘massive’ mechanisation of agriculture in Bangladesh, sordidly, conceals more than it reveals. A priori reasoning would suggest that such mechanisation would have raised both yield and profitability, thus putting the farmers on an even keel. But allegedly, they are in peril with dwindling margins. The paradox of rising mechanisation and farmers’ failing fortunes from production has been amply addressed by recent research. A group of researchers from the International Food Policy Research Institute attempted to shed important insights into agricultural mechanisation in Bangladesh. The overall goal of the research on the state of agricultural mechanisation in Bangladesh is to assess the mechanisation support programme’s impact on the agricultural sector and its effectiveness.

The discussion kicks off with the observation of declining agricultural labour force participation (2005–2022) and increasing real wages in agriculture (2010–2022) and then presents a summarised sequential history of mechanisation policy over time:

Adoption of mechanised irrigation (1970–1990): liberalisation of input markets, elimination of import tariffs on machinery, multiple engine and pump brands and sizes, and spare parts entering the market; repair workshops appear.

Adoption of mechanised tillage (1990–2005): duty-free import for 2WT (1995), flourishing of SME metal workshops, flourishing of machinery rental market local service providers.

Adoption of mechanised threshing (2005–): targeted government incentives for the purchase of selected machinery (combines, transplanters, etc), special consideration to areas where mechanisation is lagging.

There is evidence of large regional variations in the extent of machine use, with the coastal and haor belts witnessing the least mechanisation owing to a variety of factors: machines considered are power pump, seeder, power tiller, tractor, and thresher; lowest levels of ownership in the coastal zone and north-east (focus of government mechanisation priorities); highest levels of machine ownership in the west and north-west (districts with high cropping intensity) and hubs of small-scale machinery manufacturing have emerged in the west and north-west.

In fact, the government has extended its support for mechanisation in the form of various incentives, especially in the import of machines. For example, in the first phase, the government offered a 30 per cent incentive for purchasing power threshers, reaper sprayers, power tillers, seeders, weeders, dryers, power winnowers, sprinkler irrigation sets, etc. In the second phase (2012–2019), the government granted a 50–70 per cent incentive for purchasing power threshers, reapers, sprayers (foot pumps), combine harvesters, and rice transplanters. In the third phase (2019–), the government provided a 50–70 per cent incentive for purchasing power threshers, reapers, sprayers, combine harvesters, and rice transplanters, seeder/bed planter, power weeder, dryer, maize sheller, potato digger, potato chip maker, carrot washer, etc.

As a result of those incentives, machine ownership increased from 2008 and 2019, but from a very low base. Ownership of agricultural machinery increased among smallholders, but remained concentrated among larger farms; most agricultural machines used by farmers are rented (84–98 per cent). It means that there has developed a large rental market for agricultural machines in rural areas.

Through regression analysis, the researchers reached to the impacts of mechanisation (2011–2018) by types of equipment as follows:

Threshing helped gain small yield through reduced grain loss, saved labour, and increased in labour productivity slightly. But there was no increase in profitability associated with threshing (rental costs may offset labour savings/yield increase)

Other machines also did little to help save labour or increase profitability. Reasons for using these machines appear to be convenience, speed, and avoiding drudgery.

On the other hand, during 2011–2018, wage rates monotonically increased by 16–30 per cent but paddy prices monotonically moved in opposite directions by 18–29 per cent. In fact, the real gross margin for boro cultivation (constant 2011 prices) declined from about Tk 18 thousand per acre to about 7 thousand per acre, and the net margin (including opportunity costs) fell from Tk 10 thousand to minus 800 during 2011–2018. It thus seemingly shows that mechanisation of irrigation, land preparation, and threshing is insufficient to improve farmers’ economic performance. At the same time, it suggests that mechanisation of largely unmechanized labour-intensive tasks will be needed to move the needle.

As has been argued by the researchers, the most labour-intensive is planting and threshing, where no penetration of machines is evident yet, thus eroding farmers’ profits due to the high wage for labour. For example only 0.1 per cent of rice farmers used machines for planting and 0.9 per cent for harvesting in 2018.

The researchers have come up with a number of recommendations for policymakers. The emerging policy considerations should be: rental market is key for smallholder access to agricultural machinery; large machines are much more expensive than small machinery; banks are hesitant to provide loans due to limited rural presence, lack of credit history, and lack of understanding of rental service business viability; importers and manufacturers have limited capacity to extend (or obtain) credit; current mechanisation policy prohibits transfer of machine ownership; no hire-purchase loans via banks (common in other countries); challenges with spare parts, maintenance for sophisticated machines; and few skilled operators, mechanics, and little training.

It must also be admitted that we face knowledge gaps on different fronts, such as the extent of adoption of machines for planting and harvesting; the impacts of adoption of new machines (yields, profitability, labour allocation, gender, climate); the financial viability of rental service provision models for service providers and barriers to effective operation; the efficacy of targeting incentives for machine purchases and scope for improvement; and effective models for financing machine purchases and rentals.

In Conclusions, the authors tend to observe a long-run decline in the profitability of farming due to tightening rural labour markets and declining cereal prices (pre-2022); high levels of mechanisation in irrigation, land preparation, and threshing; limited scope for productivity gains or cost savings; that mechanising harvesting and planting has the potential to reduce labour constraints, improve productivity, free up labour, and reduce costs; that the extent of adoption, impacts, and constraints are not yet well understood; and that focused research is needed to inform policy choices that enable accelerated adoption.

So, unless the most labour-intensive segments of rice crop production, such as transplanting and harvesting, are mechanised, the paradox of mechanisation and mourning can hardly be resolved, and all attempts should be thrown in that direction.

Abdul Bayes, a former professor of economics and vice-chancellor of Jahangirnagar University, is an adjunct faculty at East West University.​
 

Weather-resilient rice farming promises
Published: 00:00, Mar 14,2024

A successful and extensive implementation of WFBAS in rice production would help to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 2.4, which focuses on rice productivity and profitability for farmers as well as long-term food security, writes Niaz Md Farhat Rahman

THE agricultural sector plays a vital role in promoting its economic growth. The contributions of agriculture and the crop subsector to the gross domestic product are about 13.47 per cent and 6.77 per cent, respectively. Rice is the main staple crop in Bangladesh, supplying more than 80 per cent of the total consumed food and contributing 60 per cent of the total required protein. The country ranks third in the world in rice production.


The contribution of rice farming, with a share of about 70 per cent, to the agricultural GDP is significant. Nearly 48 per cent of total rural employment in Bangladesh is directly or indirectly involved in rice production, and more than 13 million farms grow rice in an area covering some 11.77 million hectares, accounting for 78 per cent of the total agricultural crop production.

The weather significantly influences crop growth, maturity, yields, pest and disease prevalence, and water and fertiliser needs. Furthermore, the weather also has an impact on the quality of crops during their movement from the field to warehousing and then to the market. Adverse weather can affect the quality of products during transportation, as well as the viability and vigour of seeds and planting material during warehousing.

Crops and cropping systems must be matched to the meteorological requirements for maximum yield in a specific area, and pest- and disease-prevalent seasons must be avoided. Short-period meteorological data, either routine or analysed (like initial and conditional probability), play a significant role in strategic crop and cropping practice planning.



Usually, farmers cultivate in a weather-blind situation for several hours. Therefore, variations in weather and extreme weather events frequently damage crops, and farmers do not take any precautionary measures. Moreover, the benefit of favourable weather events (eg, fertiliser application on a sunny day or reduction of irrigation for the next hours or days of rainfall) remains unexploited. Weather-smart farming would consider the weather forecast and translate it into advice for farm operations to reduce the risk of adverse weather events and utilise the benefits of favourable weather events.

Agricultural weather forecasts give the required meteorological messages to guide farmers in making decisions in time about particular field activities. The impact of weather irregularities on a given crop depends on different cropping stages and on the location. The Weather Forecast-based Advisory Service under Weather Resilient Rice Cultivation Technology developed by Agromet Lab of Bangladesh Rice Research Institute is a crop management system that uses weather forecasts to generate location-specific and crop growth-stage-wise advisory services.

WFBAS is an effective concept and technique for weather as well as weather-smart rice production in Bangladesh. It can help farmers and decision-makers make appropriate rice crop management decisions for various weather conditions ahead of time. It would lessen risk as well as allow farmers to take advantage of favourable weather circumstances.

For the first time, the BRRI Agromet Lab reported on the performance of WFBAS and traditional farming practices regarding yield enhancement, profitability, and the risk of rice cultivation in different regions of Bangladesh.

The experimental findings of the BRRI Agromet Lab reveal that farmers who practice weather-resilient rice cultivation technology can enhance grain yield by 7 per cent, about half a tonne more than traditional. The study found strong evidence that management was a significant contributor to enhancing rice yield rather than choice of variety.


Nevertheless, the effective utilisation of weather information can significantly decrease overall crop losses. Furthermore, the optimal and timely use of inputs in the WFBAS system can lower production costs by an average of 13 per cent. In terms of risk, WFBAS is better than FP, despite the greater environmental variance. Moreover, WFBAS provided a scope to protect the environment with the minimum residual effect of fertiliser and pesticides. It also reduced the pressure on groundwater by ensuring efficient water management. Overall, farmers can earn an additional US$229.33 per hectare from Boro rice following the WFBAS instead of FP because WFBAS is less cost-intensive (e.g., low production cost) but more productive (eg, higher yield) than FP.

The WFBAS technology was about 31 per cent more profitable than the FP technology. WFBAS is considered an important means to improve farm outcomes by aiding the decision-making of the farmers about various operations (such as sowing, fertiliser application, irrigation, and plant protection) well ahead of time. Around 2 kg more seeds were used with FP technology. FP was found to be more labour-intensive than WFBAS. Farmers used almost 840 labourer hours per hectare on average under FP, whereas it was around 720 labourer hours under the WFBAS management system.

The farmers who followed the WFBAS were able to reduce their use of fertiliser by 16 per cent and irrigation water by 23 per cent while maintaining or even increasing their yields compared to those who did not follow that system. We also found in this study that farmers who followed WFBAS were able to reduce their use of herbicides by 52 per cent, insecticides by 40 per cent and fungicides by 26 per cent while maintaining or even increasing their yields compared to those who did not receive the services. Finally, the farmers benefited from higher income through yield enhancement, reduction of the costs of production, and reduction of risk.

The impact study results of the sensitivity analysis revealed that the adoption of WFBAS technology will stimulate total rough rice production by 0.172 million tonnes if only 5 per cent adoption rates can be ensured. We have valued the farmers’ additional benefit by adopting WFBAS technology in terms of actual (18.25 BDT per kg) as well as the government-declared rough rice farm-gate prices (26.00 BDT per kg) during 2018–19. The results showed that the nation will benefit from adding BDT 3143 million if only 5 per cent of farmers adopt the WFBAS. However, if the government-declared price can be ensured, the benefit can be BDT 4478 million.

We have already set a target of bringing 3 per cent of total farmers under the WFBAS by 2025 and 5 per cent by 2030. The forecast results showed that rough rice production would increase by 0.119 million tonnes if the adoption goal of 3 per cent is met by 2025 and that would be 0.214 million metric tonnes for 5 per cent adoption by 2030. Therefore, the investment in the dissemination of the WFBAS in the smart farming process will be beneficial for sustainable rice production and increase farmers’ income.

Finally, a successful and extensive implementation of WFBAS in the rice production system would assist Bangladesh in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 2.4, which focuses on rice productivity and profitability for farmers as well as the long-term food security of the country.

Niaz Md Farhat Rahman is a principal scientific and coordinator, Agromet Lab, Bangladesh Rice Research Institute.​
 

Food minister seeks support from FAO to boost mango export
United News of Bangladesh . Dhaka | Published: 19:15, Mar 14,2024

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-- UNB photo.

Food minister Sadhan Chandra Majumder on Thursday sought support from the Food and Agriculture Organisation to increase mango export from Bangladesh.

He sought the assistance when Jiaoqun Shi, FAO representative in Bangladesh, paid a courtesy call on him at his secretariat office.


During the meeting, they discussed the development of the country's food management and international commercialisation of local fruits.

The food minister said that Bangladesh had achieved self-sufficiency in the production of cereals.

Besides, the production of fruits and vegetables has also increased a lot, he said adding that the country produced about 25 lakh tonnes of mangoes annually but the amount of export was low compared to production.

Jiaoqun Shi said that FAO was working to strengthen food security around the world and it would continue its support to ensure food security in Bangladesh.

Food decretary Md Ismail Hossain and director general of Food Directorate Md Shakhawat Hossain, among others, were present at the meeting.​
 

Agriculture must adapt to climate change​

Our food security, farmers’ survival are at stake

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VISUAL: STAR

It is a proven fact that climate change is severely affecting agriculture in Bangladesh. Temperatures are consistently rising along with decreased rainfalls, leading to increased salinity, and thus changing our once-fertile lands into dust bowls or lands with poor yields. Its implications for our food security cannot be more profound. Take rice, our main staple. Varieties that need expensive fertilisers and pesticides have replaced many indigenous, high-yielding varieties of paddy that were nutritious and required no chemicals to grow. While we commend the efforts of the agricultural agencies in developing climate-resilient crops, future efforts must reflect the urgency and innovation necessitated by the intensifying climate change.

A report on Koyra, Khulna tells a positive story about how vast lands left barren by increasing salinity are being turned fertile with farmers planting paddy, vegetables and fruits, while also engaging in fish farming. This has been possible through various government bodies, such as the Department of Agricultural Extension and the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI), which support farmers by providing them with salinity-resistant seeds, advice, training and fertilisers. By adapting to cultivation of salinity-tolerant crops and going into fish farming, these farmers are becoming more solvent and do not have to leave their homes to seek employment elsewhere. Therefore, the community as a whole has benefitted.

The Koyra model must be replicated all over the country, especially in districts like Patuakhali where many farmers have had to abandon their ancestral profession for low-paying jobs in the cities, because the lands they grew crops in have become barren. A report in this paper quotes an official of the Meteorological Department of Patuakhali stating that over the last six years, the average temperature in the district has increased by at least 4.5 degrees Celsius. Rains start much later than before and for shorter periods of time. The high temperatures destroy many of the paddy saplings, and lack of rain leads to low-quality yields, only fit for poultry feed. The number of people engaged in agriculture has thus significantly dropped in the last 10 years.

The government must focus on these districts—once major producers of crops but now left with vast areas of fallow lands. We urge the government to mobilise its relevant agricultural bodies and collaborate with private organisations to invest in research of climate-resilient crops specific to these districts. The government should incentivise farmers to return to their farmlands and grow crops again.​
 

Can our crops survive the erratic weather?​

Take urgent stock of the impact of El Nino on our agriculture

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Visual: Star

Like the rest of the world, Bangladesh is feeling the heat of extreme weather patterns, with meteorologists predicting lower rainfall and warmer temperatures as a result of El Nino in the region in the coming days. Heatwaves, which frequented the country in May and June, are likely to continue throughout the summer – and beyond. Meanwhile, rainfall has fallen 67 percent below the normal level, as per the Bangladesh Meteorological Department, raising serious concerns about crop production, food security and the fate of our farmers.

According to a report by this daily, heatwaves have impacted the cultivation of Aus crop and summer vegetables, including green chilli. The shortfall of rain will also affect the retting of jute, a cash crop. Rising temperatures and infrequent rain have resulted in prolonged droughts, reducing availability of water for irrigation and severely hampering crop production. Farmers state that their cost of Aus production has increased by 25 percent, and that croplands are drying out even after irrigation. Moreover, heat stress poses a direct threat to crops, especially heat-sensitive varieties. Production of chillies, for instance, has been gravely affected by the erratic temperatures. According to our correspondent, chilli growers in Bogura and Gaibandha districts would usually get 50-80 maunds of green chilli from one bigha of land, but this year, they are getting roughly seven to eight maunds per bigha. How are farmers supposed to survive if their cash crop fails them?

Given that countries from which we import food items are also reeling from similar erratic weather, we must now seriously confront the very real threat of food insecurity, particularly since we are navigating an already volatile international market held hostage by the Russia-Ukraine war. India, which accounts for 40 percent of world rice export, has already banned export of rice to other countries, including Bangladesh, fearing a production fall following a late start to seasonal monsoon rains. Our government must take urgent stock of the situation and take effective measures to ensure there is no disruption in the supply of essential food items in the coming days. Equally important is to ease farmers' concerns and sufferings at this time of great uncertainty by providing them with technical and financial support.

We also need to conduct reliable research on how El Nino and climate change will impact crop cycles in the future, and come up with heat-resistant varieties that can survive and thrive in erratic weather. As the world tumbles further down the hole of climate change, there can be no alternative to building our own capacities to sustain our crops and ensure food sovereignty for our population.
 

Project to modernise farming must work​

Farmers need to be motivated and given necessary tools on time

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VISUAL: STAR

There is no question that the government's project to introduce integrated farming, using modern agricultural tools, is a farsighted initiative. In order to ensure higher yields, mechanisation of farming and cultivating larger plots of land are essential. The traditional farming of fragmented plots is not economically viable because it is not cost-effective to use mechanised farming on separate plots. Thus, some sort of consolidation of land is necessary to make this TK 3,020-crore project work. That is, however, proving difficult to implement. The project has reportedly encountered major bottlenecks in the form of farmers' reluctance to adopt the synchronised farming method.

As a result, a good policy initiative is finding no headway even after two years. One can imagine that the basic groundwork for getting all the farmers on board with this initiative, which was undertaken in 2021, has not been properly done.​

The main idea behind the project is to boost crop production as well as reduce the cost of farming by using transplanters, harvesters and other equipment on 50 to 60 acres of land. But farmers are not eager to do away with the aisles separating their plots, which is a prerequisite for the project to work. While the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) has demonstrated how this synchronised farming can be done with good results, by cultivating the hybrid SL-8 variety of Boro on 110 blocks in 61 districts, somehow farmers are still not fully convinced.

The Daily Star's report on this cites farmers in Tangail who alleged that they were ready to form groups among themselves and adopt the mechanised farming method, but they had not received the necessary equipment. The plan is to sell 51,300 machines among farmers at 50-70 percent discounts with subsidies, but as of December 2022, only 16,236 were distributed. This is a major gap and must be addressed immediately.


Having sufficient dialogue with the farmers to motivate them to remove the separating aisles in their plots and adopt this new method is vital. Farmers should be made to understand how efficient and cost-effective mechanised farming can be. This will ultimately lead to greater profits for them. Apart from a vigorous awareness campaign involving all stakeholders, the government must ensure that the farmers receive the various mechanised tools on time and with adequate training on how to use them. To gain their trust in the project, it must ensure that farmers' land rights are in no way jeopardised.
We urge the authorities to reinvigorate the project's implementation with full force. We need reforms like this in our agriculture to ensure our future food security and give our farmers the returns they so deserve for feeding the nation with their arduous efforts. Successful implementation of this project is therefore crucial.
 

FBCCI focuses on supplying high-yielding seeds at an affordable cost to farmers​

UNB

Published :​
Mar 20, 2024 21:07
Updated :​
Mar 20, 2024 21:07

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The Federation of Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) said on Wednesday that there is an urgent need to ensure quality seeds and modern storage facilities to increase agricultural production.

FBCCI president Mahbubul Alam said this while speaking at a discussion meeting of the standing committee on agriculture, agro-processing and agro-based industries at FBCCI’s Motijheel office on Wednesday.

He said that to achieve the desired productivity in agriculture, businessmen of this sector have given special importance to the availability of good quality high-yielding seeds at the farmer level, strengthening the food innovation process and climate-tolerant varieties and research.

Besides, businessmen emphasised agricultural mechanisation, establishment of specialised cold storage facilities, an improved supply system and processing of agricultural products to reduce production costs.

“We need to focus on research to improve seed quality. Also, more attention should be paid to the use of technology. As technology improves in agriculture, productivity will increase,” said the FBCCI president.

He said that farmers should be assured of getting a fair price of produce while policies should be implemented to protect their interests.

Ahsan Khan Chowdhury, chairman of the committee and chairman of Pran RFL Group, highlighted the importance of ensuring maximum utilisation of agricultural land and increasing productivity keeping in mind of future food security and growing demand.

Apart from traditional crops, he suggested increasing the production of horticulture, fisheries, livestock, and poultry including pulses and oilseeds.​
 

‘Ensuring technology to boost agri products’​

21 Mar 2024, 12:00 am0
Staff Reporter :

In a bid to achieve an agricultural productivity boost, businessmen and analysts have stressed the availability of improved varieties of seeds at the farmer level.

They also said that strengthening the food innovation process for high-yielding and climate-tolerant varieties, and conducting research have been given special importance in the agricultural sector.

Besides, they also emphasised agricultural mechanisation, the establishment of specialised cold storage, an improved supply system, and the processing of agricultural products to reduce production costs.

The panel discussed these issues in a meeting of the standing committee on agriculture, agro-processing, and agro-based industries at FBCCI’s Motijheel office on Wednesday.

Addressing the chief guest at the meeting, FBCCI President Mahbubul Alam said that the most important thing in the development of agriculture is quality and advanced varieties of seeds.

” We need to focus on research to improve seed quality. Also, more attention should be paid to the use of technology.

As technology improves in agriculture, productivity will increase.” said Mahbubul.

He placed special importance on’building a cool-chain network’ across the country to prevent wastage of agricultural products at various stages, from production to marketing.

Calling for a change in the mentality of the farmers, the FBCCI president said that the farmers should get a fair price for their produce.

Policies should be implemented to protect their interests.

FBCCI senior vice president Md. Amin Helaly urged everyone to adopt short-, medium-, and long-term plans centred on agriculture to ensure sustainable development.

Ahsan Khan Chowdhury, chairman of the committee and chairman of PRAN-RFL Group, highlighted the importance of ensuring maximum utilisation of agricultural land and increasing productivity, keeping in mind future food security and increasing demand.

He further suggested focusing on increasing the production of crops like horticulture, fisheries, livestock, and poultry, along with pulses and oilseeds, in addition to traditional crops.

FBCCI panel advisor and prominent media personality Shykh Seraj said, “It is necessary to create a crop calendar in the country to increase agricultural productivity and ensure farmers get fair prices.”

He suggested the formation of farmers’ associations to identify and solve farmers’ problems.

Shykh Seraj called for public-private joint initiatives to implement compliance and GAP (good agricultural practices) in the value addition, processing, and export of agricultural products.

The director-in-charge of the committee and director of FBCCI, Mohammad Ishaqul Hossain Sweet, called for specific suggestions and recommendations in written form to the committee members to find solutions to the challenges and solutions of the agriculture sector.​
 

BD targets ambitious 5.81m tonne maize output after record yield​

YASIR WARDAD
Published :​
Mar 25, 2024 00:49
Updated :​
Mar 25, 2024 00:49


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Rocketing demand for maize from the feed and food-processing industries is driving the continued expansion of the cereal crop's farming across the country, with production reaching an all-time high in the last financial year.

Maize production reached a record 4.55 million tonnes in the last FY, cultivated on over 0.5 million hectares of land across both winter and summer seasons, according to the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS).

However, this local production is proving insufficient, with traders also importing large volumes of maize annually to meet demand.

The Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) is ambitious for the current season, setting a target to harvest a record-breaking 5.81 million tonnes of maize from 0.543 million hectares.

"For the ongoing Rabi [winter] season, our target was to cultivate maize on 0.524 million hectares, but farmers have exceeded expectations by planting on 0.543 million hectares," said Dr Tajul Islam Patwary, Director of the DAE Field Service Wing.

He said the climate is so well-suited to maize that they expect production to even surpass 5.8 million tonnes. Harvesting has already begun (around 4 per cent complete) and will continue until June.

Dr Golam Faruq, director general of the Bangladesh Wheat and Maize Research Institute, pointed to the high prices for maize amid surging demand from the feed industry, currently exceeding Tk 34 per kg.

"Maize production offers farmers a minimum profit margin of 60 per cent, which has incentivised many to switch from crops like potato, vegetables and even rice to maize cultivation in the northern, northwestern, southwestern and central regions of the country over the past five years," said Dr Faruq.

The Feed Industries Association of Bangladesh President Shamsul Arefin Khaled elaborated on maize use, saying that 50-60 per cent of the local agri output is used in poultry feed, with another 12 per cent going to animal feed.

"Beyond the feed industry, the confectionery, hotel and restaurant sectors are also significant consumers of maize," he added.

Maize produced in Bangladesh is favoured by local industries for its superior quality, according to Mr Khaled, encouraging efforts to source as much maize as possible from domestic markets.

Maize silage -- a fermented livestock feed replacing traditional grass -- has grown in popularity.

Mr Khaled said silage can reduce grain feed requirements by up to 30 per cent. Besides, 10-15 per cent of maize is allocated for the fish feed industry.

He said while domestic maize production has increased fivefold in the past fifteen years, demand has grown even faster.

To meet the rising demand of 6.0-6.5 million tonnes, private companies also require imported maize. According to the Plant Quarantine Wing, private importers brought in 2.0 to 2.4 million tonnes of maize over the last five years.

Farm economist Professor Golam Hafiz Kennedy traced the origins of maize cultivation in Bangladesh to the 1990s, following the expansion of the poultry industry.

He highlighted how the production of maize, jute, meat and milk has enormously contributed to improving living standards for local farmers.

Maize cultivation, in particular, has emerged as a pivotal factor in alleviating poverty among farmers in the northern and southwestern regions, said Professor Kennedy.

He provided an example: farmers in Nilphamari can earn Tk 40,000 to Tk 42,000 from selling maize grown on 33 decimals of land, with a maximum investment of Tk 16,000.

Such profits are difficult with other crops.

However, Professor Kennedy cautioned that a drop in demand from the feed industry can sometimes bring hardship to farmers.

Sadid Jamil, managing director of Metal, an agro-machinery company, said the availability of modern equipment for land preparation, harvesting and shelling has further encouraged farmers to cultivate maize.

Farmers now harvest maize using combine harvesters and then extract kernels from the cobs using modern maize shellers, said the Metal MD.

He added that maize shellers have reduced threshing costs by 80 per cent in most regions.​
 

Mango buds bloom in abundance

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Mango buds on trees are in abundance in Thakurgaon following a favourable weather, showing a bright prospect for a good yield of the juicy summer fruit.

Visiting mango orchards in different areas of the district, this correspondent observed yellowish mango buds are adorning the branches, while the fragrance fills up the air in and around the orchards.

Mango is being cultivated in orchards on 7,950 acres of land in the district this year, including 1,465.9 acres in Sadar upazila, 2,981.8 acres in Pirganj, 1,078.94 acres in Baliadangi, 1,767 acres in Ranishankoil and 662.39 acres in Haripur upazila, according to the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE).

Buds started appearing in the trees in the middle of winter. Usually, budding begins in mid-January and continues till Mid-March.

Last year, about 42,680 tonnes of mangoes of over 20 varieties were produced in the district, DAE sources said.

The most prominent mango varieties cultivated in Thakurgaon are Surjapuri, Fazli, Amrapali, Misribhog, Haribhanga, Bandigori and Ashwina.

Abdur Rahim, 55, of Bara Palashbari village under Baliadangi upazila, has a 33-acre mango orchard.

"On an average, Tk 30,000 is needed to cultivate mango for per acre of land to get a yield of around 200-250 maunds," he said, adding that last year he earned a profit of Tk 1.7 lakh per acre.

"The trees are bearing more buds than last year," said Rahim.

Mango traders from different parts of the country including Dhaka are already signing up agreements with mango growers in the district and making handsome advance payments, he informed.

Sirajul Islam, deputy director of DAE in Thakuraon said, "With the onset of spring, the temperature is rising favourably in the region, which is necessary for the buds to transform to fruits."​
 

Govt to introduce solar irrigation in agriculture sector: Nasrul Hamid
Published :​
Mar 30, 2024 17:56
Updated :​
Mar 30, 2024 17:56


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With sincere efforts, the government will introduce solar irrigation by reducing the number of diesel irrigation pumps in the agriculture sector.

"There are about 1.2 million (12 lakh) diesel irrigation pumps in the agriculture sector across the country that will be transformed into solar irrigation," State Minister for Power and Energy and Mineral Resources Nasrul Hamid told BSS on Saturday.

"To combat the effects of climate change, the government's target is to produce 4,000 megawatts (MW) of electricity from renewable energy by 2030," he added.

The state minister said the government has a roadmap to increase power from renewable energy sources up to 12,000 MW in the future, reports BSS.

"A plan has been taken to generate 40 per cent power from clean energy by 2041 and import about 9,000 MW under regional and sub-regional cooperation from neighbouring countries," he said.

But experts said that lack of land and investment are the big challenges for expanding renewable energy and electricity generation in the country.

They mentioned that developed countries have been pressuring developing countries to reduce fossil fuel and increase renewable energy in order to deal with the risks of climate change.

Bangladesh is now enjoying 100 per cent electrification due to the visionary and prudent leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Electricity has reached all houses, from inaccessible hills to isolated char areas, successfully, the experts said.

The state minister said in such a situation, the government has required long-term plan to reduce coal fired power plants and increase renewable energy in the country, adding, "Under the energy transition, solar power is being prioritized in agriculture instead of diesel irrigation pumps."

According to an analysis of the government plan in renewable energy sector, the production target from 51 projects in the short and medium term is 3748 MW. Out of the target, 647 MW will be in the public sector and 3101 MW from solar, wind and waste based power in the private sector solar.

The government's long-term plan emphasises importing renewable energy from neighbouring countries. The prospective generation target is 8299 MW from 74 ongoing projects.

Major portion of the power (6493 MW) will come from the private sector. However, experts mentioned that investment, modernisation of grid lines as a challenge to implement the plan.

Apart from this, construction works are going on for 100 MW Solar Power Plant at Madarganj in Jamalpur, 68 MW Solar Park in Sirajganj, 50 MW Solar Power Plant Construction Project in Sonagazi in Feni, 30 MW (AC) Solar Park at Tetulia, by Beximco Power Company Ltd and Jiangsu Zhongtian Technology Co Ltd, 32 MW (AC) Solar Park at Dharampasha, Sunamganj by Haor Bangla-Korea Green Energy Ltd, 5 MW (AC) Solar Park at Patgram, Lalmonirhat by PV Power Patgram Ltd, 5 MW (AC) Solar Park at Gowainghat, Sylhet by Sun Solar Power Plant Ltd and 200 MW (AC) Solar Park at Sundarganj, Gaibandha by Beximco Power Co Ltd.​
 

Bangladesh allocates Tk 385b for agriculture, aiming for 10pc annual growth by FY26
Published :
Apr 15, 2024 11:54
Updated :
Apr 15, 2024 22:16

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The government has earmarked Tk 385 billion for agricultural development over the next three years, targeting an average annual growth of 10 per cent in the sector by the fiscal year 2025-26 (FY26).

This investment underscores agriculture's pivotal role in achieving food security and driving equitable economic growth, according to the 'Medium Term Macroeconomic Policy Statement (2023-24 to 2025-26)'.

Despite a diminishing share in GDP, agriculture remains critical for the livelihood of the majority, particularly in rural areas. To boost food production and resilience against adversities, the government's strategy includes developing high-yield and adversity-tolerant crop varieties, expanding mechanisation and irrigation, and improving access to affordable inputs like seeds and fertilisers.

According to a UNB report, the policy document highlights several initiatives aimed at modernising agriculture through technology. These include increasing the use of surface water for irrigation over groundwater to conserve resources, incorporating renewable energy solutions, and employing remote sensing for crop monitoring.

The government also continues to support the sector with subsidies, financial incentives, and technological innovations to foster a sustainable and self-reliant agricultural framework.

Significant contributions also come from the fisheries and livestock sub-sectors, which not only bolster GDP 2.53% and 1.91%, respectively, but also provide essential protein sources and livelihoods for over 12% of the population. Achievements in these areas include self-sufficiency in fish, meat, and egg production, with milk expected to follow.

Moreover, these sectors are vital for foreign exchange earnings through exports.

Looking ahead, the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries is set to launch development projects to enhance production capacities, adopt advanced management technologies, and improve conservation efforts, particularly for young hilsa fish ('jatka').

Water resource management is another focal area, given its importance to sustainable agriculture. Initiatives are underway to improve surface water availability through the excavation of water bodies and the enhancement of coastal afforestation, aiming to secure equitable water shares from transboundary rivers.

Amid threats of substantial economic losses due to climate change projected at a 6.8% reduction in GDP by 2030, the government has prioritised comprehensive strategies to mitigate these impacts. The Mujib Climate Prosperity Plan is designed to equip vulnerable sectors and communities with the tools to enhance resilience and stability against climate-related disruptions.

Through these multifaceted efforts, Bangladesh is taking decisive steps to not only safeguard but also advance its agricultural heritage in the face of evolving global challenges.​
 

'Agricultural sector shines while industrial, service sectors struggle'
16 Apr 2024, 12:00 am

Staff reporter :

The latest statistics released by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) reveal a significant downturn in the growth of the industrial and service sectors during the last quarter of October to December.

Conversely, the agricultural sector has witnessed a remarkable increase in its contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This data sheds light on the economic dynamics of the country, indicating both challenges and opportunities.

BBS's calculation of GDP growth, considering three primary sectors regionally, indicates a noticeable decline in the growth rates of the industrial and service sectors, resulting in an overall reduction in growth.

The regional GDP growth rate for the second quarter of the current fiscal year plummeted to 3.78%, a substantial decrease compared to the previous fiscal year's second-quarter growth rate of over 7% and the 9.30% growth rate in the fiscal year 2021–22.

This setback in growth is not only evident in comparison to the last two fiscal years but also in contrast to the first quarter of the current fiscal year, where GDP growth was above 6%. However, in the second quarter, it dwindled to nearly 4%.

The industrial sector experienced a significant decline in growth, with GDP growth plummeting to 3.24% in the October–December quarter of the current fiscal year.

This is in stark contrast to the 10% growth witnessed during the same period in the previous fiscal year and the approximately 14% growth recorded in the fiscal year 2021–22, making it the lowest growth quarter in the industrial sector in the last three fiscal years.

Conversely, the agricultural sector has showcased robust growth, recording a growth rate of 4.65% in the second quarter of the current fiscal year.

This marks a notable increase compared to the growth rates of 4.22% and 2.20% in the same period of the previous two fiscal years, respectively, positioning it as the sector with the highest growth in the last three fiscal years.

Despite the agricultural sector's commendable performance, the service sector, akin to the industrial sector, has witnessed a significant decline in growth during the October–December quarter of the current fiscal year.

With a growth rate of 3.06% in this period, the service sector's growth is less than half of what it was during the same period in the previous fiscal year, which was at 6.62%.

Khandaker Golam Moazzem, the research director at the Center for Policy Dialogue (CPD), attributes the decline in industrial growth to crises in the glass and dollar markets, alongside a decrease in demand for high-value goods.

Additionally, high inflation has contributed to the downturn in service sector growth, as increased expenses across various service sectors have deterred consumer spending.

Despite the economic challenges, the agricultural sector has flourished, experiencing increased internal production due to reduced imports and rising domestic prices.

The government's initiatives to support agricultural production have further bolstered this growth.

Moazzem emphasises that, amidst the economic crisis, the government's effective supply of essential resources to the agricultural sector has ensured its resilience.

While the industrial and service sectors grapple with challenges, the agricultural sector's growth bodes well for the economy, offering stability and security in terms of food production.​
 

Farmers to get fair price for rice: Agriculture Minister
UNB
Published :
Apr 19, 2024 20:58
Updated :
Apr 19, 2024 20:58

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The price of rice will be fixed in such a way that farmers get a fair price, Agriculture Minister Dr. Mohammed Abdus Shahid said on Friday.

Besides, the government is implementing various initiatives to de-risk Haor crops, he said.

The Minister was speaking at a Boro paddy cutting festival organised by the DC office and Agricultural Extension Department in Bahadurpur village of Sunamganj's Sadar Upazila on Friday.

Earlier, the minister distributed combine harvester machines among the farmers.

Bangabandhu's daughter Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is providing combine harvesters and reapers to farmers with a 70 per cent subsidy so that they can bring their crops within a short time.

Addressing the farmers, the minister said that as there is a risk of crops in Haor areas getting submerged, early and short-lived varieties of paddy should be cultivated.

"The production of new varieties of rice invented by scientists in Bangladesh is very high, so cultivate them," added the minister.

Regarding the price of paddy, the minister said that the meeting will be held after two days to fix the price of paddy. It will ensure that farmers get a fair price. The price of rice will be determined in such a way that the farmers are encouraged to grow paddy, he said.

He said that strict attention should be paid to ensure that only real farmers can sell paddy at a fair price. "Upazila Chairmen should keep a close eye so that no syndicate is formed in the sale of paddy."

Former minister MA Mannan, lawmakers Mohammad Sadiq and Ranjit Chandra Sarkar, Secretary of Ministry of Water Resources Nazmul Ahsan, Additional Secretary of Ministry of Agriculture Malay Chowdhury, Chairman of BADC Abdullah Sajjad, Director General of Directorate of Agriculture Badal Chandra Biswas, Director General of Rice Research Institute Shahjahan Kabir, Director General of Atomic Agriculture Research Institute Mirza Mofazzal Islam, Deputy Commissioner Rashed Iqbal Chowdhury and others spoke.​
 

Agri production fall feared amid heatwave
Emran Hossain 25 April, 2024, 00:17

Rice fields began developing cracks as vast landscapes lay parched from about two weeks of intense heat conditions, with farmers battling a severe power crisis in irrigating cropland.

Farmers, hit hard by inflation for over two years now, on top of the Covid-19 pandemic aftermath, face potentially catastrophic consequences as the government has left them on their own, asking them to irrigate fields using diesel-run water pumps.

Crop fields lay badly scorched from a blazing sun that has burned most of Bangladesh with temperatures above 36C since April 11, except for days when it got as warm as 40C or even more, squeezing every bit of moisture out of the soil.

On Wednesday, Bangladesh's maximum temperature of 41.6C was recorded in Mongla, with a severe heatwave sweeping over the entire division of Khulna and the districts of Dinajpur, Nilphamari, Rajshahi, Pabna, Faridpur, and Gopalganj.

The Directorate General of Health Services confirmed three more deaths in heat strokes, taking the official death toll to four, less than a fourth of the deaths unofficially reported in the heatwave.

The combined strike of heat and drought stresses could bear significant consequences, agriculturists warned, explaining how temperatures above 35C affect the physiology of plants, potentially decimating yields.

Besides the staple grain boro, there are over a dozen crops in the field, agriculturists said, in addition to horticulture crops such as mango and litchi.

The main concern, however, arose over potential boro production losses. Boro accounts for about half of Bangladesh's annual rice grain production of about 4 crore.

The heatwave showed no sign of letting up anytime soon and rather worsened over the past two days. Load-shedding neared 1,500MW on Wednesday.

'Four hours of power supply after midnight is all farmers need to save the day,' said Abdullah Al Faisal, upazila agriculture officer, Jamalpur, reporting cracks developed in some fields in Chhobilapur.

But power cuts are so frequent in the rural areas of Jamalpur, like many other villages in Bangladesh, that farmers do not get even the minimum supply of electricity. Faisal informed the local power office about the situation, but it yielded no result.

'Farmers have been advised to arrange for irrigation using diesel,' he said.

High temperatures and droughts impact rice plants at every stage of their growth, agronomists said.

The higher the temperature, the more the rice plant uses its energy to cool off rather than forming grain, explained Abdul Kader, who teaches agronomy at Bangladesh Agricultural University.

High temperatures and drought also dry up the sticky substance on which pollen are stuck in the process of pollination, he said.

'Rice production gets hampered when the temperature exceeds 35C,' said Kader, sharing his fear that 40C might seriously affect production.

'Only artificial irrigation can save farmers,' he said.

Over 80 per cent of boro cultivated on 48.56 lakh hectares is still in the field, mostly at the flowering stage, implying that their pollination could seriously be impacted by the extreme heat conditions, according to officials at the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute.

The present time is very crucial for rice growth in Bangladesh, the BRRI officials said, explaining that the temperature staying above 36C even for a very brief period could seriously hamper flowering, particularly between the hours of 9:30am and 11:30am.

'Less flowering means less grain and more sterility,' said Niaz Md Farhat Rahman, principal scientific officer, BRRI.

The BRRI advised farmers to maintain a water depth of five to seven cm in rice fields and harvest rice once it is 80 per cent mature.

The heat might not have any impacts on mature rice plants, BRRI officials said.

The physiologies of other plants are impacted almost in the same way as rice plants by heat and drought stresses.

Extreme temperatures also affect photosynthesis in plants by causing leaves to burn, cringe, or disfigure in any other way.

The neck blast disease could also be triggered by high temperatures.

Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute senior scientific officer Muhammad Nazim Uddin feared that a fourth of all vegetable production in the season could fall because of the heatwave.

Excessive temperature at the time of flowering could result in plants having excessive male flowers, he said, adding that at least 15 summer vegetables were in the field.

'Too much dryness could also make it difficult for trees to hold onto their flowers,' said Nazim.

New Age Staff Correspondent in Rajshahi reported a great loss of flowers and buds in mango and litchi trees.

Ahsan Habib, a mango farmer in Shibganj, Chapainawabganj, said that his mango orchard lost 30 per cent of its buds because of heat and drought.

Another farmer in Iswardi of Pabna, Selim Reza, told New Age that his litchi orchards on 15 bighas of the land saw fifty per cent less flowering.

The heatwave and drought are also drying up jute and maize fields in the Chars in Rajshahi.

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department, in its daily weather bulletin issued at 6:00pm predicted the weather to remain hot and dry the rest of the month, except for some rainfall in Sylhet and Chattogram.

The BMD said that a mild to moderate heatwave was sweeping over Barishal division and the rest of Rangpur, Rajshahi, and Dhaka divisions, as well as the districts of Mymensingh, Moulviabazar, Rangamati, Chandpur, Noakhali, Feni, and Bandarban.

Dhaka saw the temperature rise to 39.2C on Wednesday.

At 1:00am on Wednesday, load-shedding reached 1,468MW with 14,163MW generated against the demand of 15,700MW.

Bangladesh has an installed capacity of over 27,000MW. Half of the capacity stays idle because of fuel shortages.

Almost all educational institutions have suspended in-person classes and switched to online classes because of the heatwave.

Dhaka recorded the second-hottest day on April 20 in 64 years.​
 

'5-yield a year rice variety shows food safety hope'
25 Apr 2024, 12:14 pm
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Staff Reporter :

Dr. Abed Chowdhury, an expatriate Bangladeshi scientist from Australia, has garnered praise for his groundbreaking invention of 'Panchabrihi' rice, hailed as a significant achievement for Bangladesh's agricultural sector.

Dhaka University Pro-VC Prof. Dr. Sitesh Chandra Bachar, commended the innovation, emphasising its potential to address the country's food security challenges. Speaking at a seminar titled "Panchabrihi Multi-harvest Rice: A Pathway to Food Security and Climate Migration," organised by DU's Centre for Advanced Research in Sciences (CARS) in collaboration with the Bangladesh Freedom Foundation (BFF), Prof. Bachar underscored the importance of the 'five-yield-a-year' rice variety in meeting the growing food demand of the nation.

Prof. Bachar highlighted the pressing concerns of population growth coupled with shrinking arable land, exacerbated by the effects of climate change and the limitations of traditional single-yield rice production. He warned of potential food crises in the future if proactive measures are not taken.

He further emphasised the significance of research and innovation, emphasising their pivotal role in addressing the looming food security challenges.

Prof. Bachar expressed confidence in the collaborative efforts between Dhaka University, the government, and relevant institutions, including DU's CARS, in advancing research initiatives aimed at ensuring food security and sustainability.

Prof. Bachar expressed optimism and said, "The people of Bangladesh would reap significant benefits from this revolutionary invention. The 'Panchabrihi' rice variant, capable of producing yields five times a year from the same plant, represents a remarkable advancement in agricultural technology."

"Unlike traditional practices where farmers must uproot and replant new seeds during the Aus season and subsequently repeat the process during the Amon season, the 'Panchabrihi' offers a transformative solution. Farmers can now achieve five harvests in a single year, starting with a Boro season followed by two Aus and two Amon seasons, all without the need for extensive replanting," added the professor.

The seminar, chaired by CARS director Professor Dr. Istaik M. Sayed, provided a platform to showcase the potential of the 'Panchabrihi' rice. Dr. Abed Chowdhury, the mastermind behind the invention, delivered the keynote address, elucidating the groundbreaking features and implications of the rice variant.

Special guests, including Member of Parliament (MP) Safiul Alam Chowdhury and former education secretary Md. Nazrul Islam Khan, graced the event with their presence. Their attendance underscored the significance of this innovative solution in addressing the challenges facing Bangladesh's agricultural sector and ensuring food security for its populace.
 

StanChart, Channel i honour 11 agriculture heroes at 9th Agrow Award

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Md Abdur Rahman, minister for fisheries and livestock, poses for photographs with award winners at the 9th Aglow Award jointly organised by Standard Chartered Bangladesh and Channel I at InterContinental Dhaka on Friday. Photo: Standard Chartered Bangladesh

Standard Chartered Bangladesh and Channel i jointly awarded 11 individuals and institutions at the 9th Agrow Award for their contributions towards achieving climate adaptation goals, building sustainable networks, supplementing value chains, research initiatives, and driving tangible change across homesteads and commercial agricultural operations.

Md Abdur Rahman, minister for fisheries and livestock, attended the ceremony as chief guest and handed out crests and prize money to winners at the InterContinental Dhaka on Friday, according to a press release.

Although the organisers were supposed to confer awards in 12 categories, they did not get qualified nominees in one category.

Md Abul Kalam Azad was awarded "Farmer of The Year (male)", while Tania Parvin won in the female category.

Sanwar Hossain got the "Heroes for Change" award while Md Siddik Hosen and Sabitri Biswas were awarded the "Most Resilient Farmer of the Year" award in the male and female category respectively.

Besides, Mrinmoy Guha Neogi won the "Climate Adaptation Solution of the Year", Shahanuare Shaid Shahin of Daily Kaler Kantho bagged the "Best Journalist" prize, and Mohammad Al-Mamun was chosen as "Jury Special".

MA Sattar Mandal, professor emeritus of the Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), won the lifetime achievement award.

PRAN Dairy bagged the award for the "Best Agricultural Exporter" while iFarmer was awarded as the "Best Agricultural Organisation in Support and Execution".

The most Agrow Award honorees bring the total number of recipients to 77.

At the event, Naser Ezaz Bijoy, chief executive officer of Standard Chartered Bangladesh, said: "This year's Agrow Award winners do exactly what is needed to meet the need of the hour -- their efforts reflect resilience and the urgency in use of technology and innovation."

Faridur Reza Sagar, managing director of Channel i, said: "Agriculture and farmers are playing an important role in the progress of Bangladesh. From agricultural production to agricultural trade, a light of immense potential is constantly spreading. We want to spread that light throughout the country."

Shykh Seraj, director and head of news at Channel i, said: "Those who received the Agrow Award have made a great contribution in their respective fields. Channel i is delighted to honour these dedicated people in collaboration with Standard Chartered Bangladesh."​
 

Agricultural machinery imports from China to increase: Minister
FE ONLINE DESK
Published :
Apr 29, 2024 18:06
Updated :
Apr 29, 2024 19:01


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Agricultural Minister Dr Md Abdus Shahid on Monday said that the government would ramp up the imports of agricultural machinery from China.

'We have been importing a lot of [agricultural] machinery from China and we plan to increase that volume," he said after meeting with Chinese Ambassador in Dhaka Yen Wao at the former's office.

When asked about the specific type of agricultural machinery imports to be increased, Dr Shahid noted that agricultural machinery such as harvesters and tillers, which are necessary for enhancing agricultural productivity, would be included in the increased imports.

The agricultural minister added that these increased imports would be secured at a discounted price.​
 

China keen to import mangoes from Bangladesh
FE ONLINE DESK
Published :
Apr 29, 2024 21:20
Updated :
Apr 29, 2024 21:20


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China expressed its keenness to import mango from Bangladesh this year, said Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen.

The Chinese Ambassador came up with the information while talking to the Agriculture Minister Dr Md Abdus Shahid at the Secretariat on Monday, reports UNB.

An expert delegation from China will likely visit the country, specifically the mango orchards and production facilities, in the first week of June.

Bangladesh will approve the export of mangoes based on the report of the Chinese delegation.

Additional secretary to the Agriculture Ministry Moloy Chowdhury, joint secretary Md Mahmudur Rahman were present there.

Expecting Chinese investment in the agriculture sector, the minister said Bangladesh needs modern and technical assistance to modernise and mechanise agriculture sector, especially, the country's farmers need China's cooperation so that the farmers can get modern agricultural machinery at low price, as we can purchase machines from China at a relatively low price."

Earlier, the Agriculture Minister met Ambassador of the Netherlands in Bangladesh Irma van Dueren.

The meeting stressed the need for strengthening mutual cooperation in the agriculture sector and working together on strengthening agricultural research and technology exchange.

The meeting also discussed the construction and launch of onion storage in Mymensingh's Bhaluka at the initiative of the Netherlands government.

Onions can be stored throughout the year in this storage, which will be inaugurated officially on May 2.

Noting that onion is an important crop of Bangladesh, the minister said, "To become self-sufficient in onion, we are emphasising increasing onion production and preservation."

The initiative of the Netherlands government will play a very helpful role in this regard.​
 

Harvesting progress: Agri loans for women

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Bangladesh, a land nourished by fertile deltas, thrives on its agricultural sector. But beneath the swaying crops lies a reality often unseen which is the immense contribution of women farmers. Women farmers in Bangladesh are the backbone of the country's agriculture sector, contributing significantly to the nation's food security and economy. Despite making up about half of the farm labor force, their efforts often go unpaid and unrecognized. Women are involved in every aspect of agriculture, from tilling the fields to post-harvest activities, and even fetching water for family use.

The government has taken various initiatives to ensure women's participation in every sector to empower them economically. The annual report (2022-23) of the Department of Agricultural Extension states that the department has undertaken several projects aiming at women's development and poverty alleviation to ensure at least 30% of women of the country's farmer families are involved in agricultural activities. Moreover, 30% participation of women has been ensured in all types of training and exhibition activities.

However, women farmers in Bangladesh face numerous challenges, including patriarchal norms and practices that hinder their empowerment. A study in northwestern Bangladesh found that women farmers worked longer hours than men, but received lower wages.

Despite their backbreaking labor in planting, weeding, and harvesting, women rarely own land or have control over the sale of produce. Societal norms often relegate them to the role of helpers, with the decision-making power resting with male family members. This lack of ownership directly impacts their ability to secure loans, as land is often considered the primary collateral. Even when women manage to overcome these barriers, the process of acquiring an Agri loan can be daunting.

The financial institutes also face difficulties in reaching out to women farmers in rural areas. "They are concentrated mostly on small home-bound poultry or dairy farms because that's easy for them to look after besides their homemaking. Other types of cultivation are male dominated and there are also too many dependences. Interestingly, we witnessed that women farmers are shy to availing of banking services assuming this could be a hassle to some and, besides, they also don't have much time to spare out of their busy schedule. However, BRAC Bank provides collateral-free agriculture loans to smallholder farmers irrespective of gender. Therefore, land ownership and documentation do not make crucial sense to us in assessing credit. Nonetheless, we prefer to have a personal guarantee over BDT 50,000 loans," shares Syed Abdul Momen, Deputy Managing Director & Head of SME Banking, at BRAC Bank.

Furthermore, Md. Katebur Rahman, Senior Vice President and Head of the Agriculture Banking Unit, Dhaka Bank states, "The main challenges for the women farmers are education and ownership of land. As the rural women are getting basic education, financial institutions like Dhaka Bank are developing policies to provide agricultural loans to rural women."

Another reason behind women farmers' lack of awareness regarding banking loans is financial illiteracy. Mr. Katebur comments, "The access to training and development of women in agriculture is very much insignificant. The participation rate of women in training programs is much lower than men in Bangladesh. It may be due to social, religious, and traditional bindings for women which restrict the women from going to a crowd where many other males are also present. However, most of the time, we try to arrange a day-long workshop for the women working in agricultural businesses at their convenient places so that they can participate easily and can apply the knowledge in their businesses."

Nonetheless, various banks and financial institutions are working towards ensuring financial security for women. Mr. Momen from BRAC Bank shares, "BRAC Bank's 'TARA' is a dedicated banking service designed for women segment beneficiaries including the agriculture segments. To encourage the women farmers, we are offering special schemes with 10 Tk farmers' accounts which have no account maintenance fee with certain conditions, access to agent banking outlets, collateral-free loans with easy terms, alongside lower interest rates and minimum documentation charges than that of general loans. The digital loan processing system has also been initiated to cater to this segment to minimize the turnaround time."

Md Nasiruzzaman, Chairman of Bangladesh Krishi Bank shares, "At Krishi Bank, we have passed the policy this year to implement the Kalikapur model of harvesting in wasteland which was invented by the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute. Only the women farmers will get a 10,000 Tk loan for this harvesting model in their own courtyard without any collateral fee. Through this 'Amar Angina, Amar Krishi' program, we hope to ensure food security for the poor as well."

While numerous schemes target women entrepreneurs, there's a noticeable gap in agri-based schemes tailored for them, even at the government level. "Most women-centric schemes fall under small initiatives. Moreover, we scarcely see any female farmer coming forward, rather there is more women participation in the poultry and fishery sector," shares Kamrul Mehedi, Head of SME, City Bank.

He further adds, "Without the presence of a strong distribution network, whether it is physical or digital, it becomes extremely difficult to reach the customers."

Elaborating on the strength of the distribution network, Ahsan Jamil, Vice President and Head of SME and Agri Loan, Midland Bank states, "We distribute loans through various NGOs due to their robust agent network. NGOs establish committees for micro-credit distribution and excel in recovery, an area challenging for banks. While private banks extend their reach to upazila and thana levels, grassroots areas remain under-served. NGOs bridge this gap with their extensive agent networks, vital until banks establish a public-level presence. Although we're progressing with agent banking, it's still evolving and requires more time to mature."

By addressing these challenges, Bangladesh can unlock the full potential of its agricultural sector. Empowering women farmers through accessible Agri loans will not only improve their livelihoods but also contribute to national food security and economic growth.​
 

What Bangladeshi banks offer to farmers

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In recent years, agricultural and rural finance programs have been boosted as the private commercial banks (PCBs) along with state-owned commercial banks (SCBs), have come forward to disburse agri-loans in the country.

In line with the broad-based objectives of the government, Bangladesh Bank (BB) formulates the 'Agricultural And Rural Credit Policy and Programme' to ensure an adequate flow of funds to the agricultural and rural economies in a proper, timely, easier, and hassle-free manner, reaching farmers at the grassroots level. This policy plays a helpful role in increasing the scope of agri-loans, promoting financial inclusion, fostering the use of technology, and expanding banking activities in rural areas.

This article will explore the new and existing products Bangladeshi banks offer as agri loans to farmers of different levels.

Smart Agri Loan by AB Bank

Iftekhar Enam Awal, Head of Business, Corporate, and SME at AB Bank, elaborated on the bank's initiative to provide agricultural loans to marginal farmers through the AB Smart Card. This innovative loan product, operational in 43 Upazilas across 11 districts, benefited 27,008 marginal farmers in 2023, particularly those who are landless or sharecroppers. Additionally, the bank's 19 programs, totaling loans worth 154.01 crore, directly contributed to agricultural production, yielding 24,000 metric tons of grains across 12,500 acres of land.

The farmers are required to submit the Agricultural Input Assistance Card issued by the Department of Agriculture Extension along with their own NID Card to obtain an agricultural loan from AB Bank. Additionally, a personal guarantee from their spouse and a guarantee from a third party are required. Once the loan is approved, disbursement is made to the customer's account, from which they can withdraw funds as needed through the AB Smart card. After full repayment of the loan, farmers can apply for further loans for different agricultural activities, and the loan amount may be increased if necessary.

Demand and Term Loans by Bank Asia

"The existing demand and term agri loan products cover all needs of farmers in terms of their convenience, purposefulness, and ease of repayment. The existing products are also being offered at a low price with a moratorium depending on the requirement of the farmer. Farmers can get season-based loans easily either in one-time mode or in installments," said Md. Shaminoor Rahman, Senior Executive Vice President & Head of SMR, Bank Asia.

The Demand and Term Loan products include:

Dairy Support: for milk production and beef fattening

Fishery Support: for all types of fish cultivation and hatchery

Poultry Support: for poultry projects involved in egg and meat production

Loan against Tk10 A/C: for small/marginal/landless farmers, micro/marginal/small business people involved in any income-generating activity, people affected by natural calamities involved in any income-generating activities, disabled & women entrepreneurs

MFI Finance: for financing ultimate beneficiaries through MFIs

Additionally, the Demand Loan product, Cropping Support, is for cultivating all types of crops, vegetables, medicinal plants, fruits, and flowers. (Note that for the cultivation of pulses, oilseeds, spices, and maize, the loan is provided only at 4.00% per annum). The Term Loan, Agricultural Equipment Support, is for purchasing agri-machinery and irrigation equipment.

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PHOTO: STAR

Capital and Term Loans by BRAC Bank

"We have developed our digital process to reduce the processing time of loans to marginal farmers. Hence, they can avail of loans up to BDT 50,000 using smartphones in the quickest possible time," said Syed Abdul Momen, Deputy Managing Director & Head of SME Banking, BRAC Bank.

BRAC Bank has working capital loans and term loans for the farmers' specific needs. They can also avail of term loans for fixed assets and agri-machinery procurement. All agri loan products can be availed at a lower rate than regular ones, with easy terms and conditions and charges, no supervision and processing costs.

Krishi Loan by City Bank

"City Bank currently offers only the 'Krishi Loan' to farmers, with quick disbursement within 3-5 days. In 2022-23, the bank surpassed Bangladesh Bank's target of BDT 574 crore, disbursing BDT 966 crore, which is 168% of the goal. 70% of the disbursement was through NGOs, and 30% via its own channels, positioning it as one of the top banks in providing agri loans," said Kamrul Mehedi, Head of SME at City Bank.

This year, City Bank aims to launch the 'Digital Agri Loan' to efficiently reach more farmers, leveraging technology to bridge the digital gap. The loan will utilize a scoring engine based on factors such as behavior, social data, transaction patterns, and crop cycles to accurately determine loan amounts and purposes. City Bank is providing loans to farmers through agent banking in a hybrid model and this transactional data will be pulled out to prepare the scoring engine for digital lending to the farmers.

Sufola (Ezy Bank Account) by Dhaka Bank

The Sufola Ezy Bank account is a relatively new loan product offered by Dhaka Bank. "Farmers can easily open a Sufola bank account using a smartphone or tablet, eliminating the need to visit a branch. With this account, they can access agricultural credit and receive a complimentary debit card. The debit card allows them to transfer funds from their loan account to the Sufola account for purchasing daily necessities or agricultural inputs. Additionally, they can transfer funds from the Sufola account to mobile banking apps. In addition to the Sufola account, Dhaka Bank offers nano loans ranging from Tk.5,000.00 to Tk.50,000.00, ideal for farmers facing short-term financial crises. To avail of this service, only a mobile number, NID, and reference are required. If any farmer applies properly, within 3 hours disbursement could be completed." said Md. Katebur Rahman, Senior Vice President, and Head of the Agriculture Banking Unit at Dhaka Bank.

In recent years, agricultural and rural finance programs have been boosted as the private commercial banks (PCBs) along with state-owned commercial banks (SCBs), have come forward to disburse agri-loans in the country.

Dhaka Bank also offers various existing agricultural credit products, including Overdraft Agriculture (OD Agri), Short Term Loan Agriculture (STLA), Term Loan Agriculture (TLA), Bai Muazzal Agriculture, Murabaha Purchase Order Agriculture, and Murabaha Term Finance Agriculture. Utilizing these products, Dhaka Bank provides agriculture loans/investments for individuals against secured assets (mortgaged property). Conversely, the new products offer insured loans to farmers. Considering the needs of small farmers, Dhaka Bank provides a group credit facility where no security is required, enabling small/marginal farmers to access credit facilities within a very short time.

EBL Krishi Rin by Eastern Bank

EBL has provided financing of up to 1.5 lac to farmers for cultivating crops such as paddy, wheat, and vegetables through its existing agri-product called 'EBL Krishi Rin.' The bank offers this loan for a period of 6 to 12 months under the Agri general loan or food safety scheme of Bangladesh Bank.

"We have already achieved the target under the food safety scheme of Bangladesh Bank, as well as agri general loans, and disbursed BDT 550 crore worth of loans with NGO linkage in FY24," shared M. Khorshed Anowar, Head of Retail & SME Banking.

Krishi DL by Mutual Trust Bank (MTB)

MTB Bank's 'Krishi DL' is a new product tailored to synchronize cash flow with specific timeframes, launched in 2022. It aims to streamline customer transactions while disbursing loans to farmers 15 to 30 days before their seasonal needs arise. The loan offers tenor options of 1, 3, 4, 6, and 12 months, determined by the farmer's loan amount and the intended crop.

This approach aligns loan disbursement with the farmer's seasonal demands, facilitating timely repayment once harvesting generates sufficient cash flow. For instance, MTB extends a 6-month repayment period for long-term endeavors such as raising cattle, whereas activities like milking necessitates installment payments.

"Additionally, MTB offers an existing agricultural loan product called 'MTB Krishi', structured as an installment plan. The key distinction between the two lies in the flexibility afforded to customers: whether they prefer monthly/quarterly repayments or settling the entire loan once adequate cash flow is available, depending on their practical circumstances," said Kazi Mohammad Selim, Head of Cluster 4 for SME and Agri Banking Division at MTB.

MDB Krishi Loan by Midland Bank

Midland Bank currently offers the primary loan product, 'MDB Krishi Loan,' which is versatile and tailored to various agricultural needs, including direct disbursement to farmers or through NGO partnerships. Loan allocation is based on crop types and duration, aligning with the unique timeframes of each crop. Additionally, in collaboration with NGOs, Midland Bank strives to reach areas lacking branch presence, ensuring widespread farmer access. NGOs report disbursement details to Midland, which are subsequently forwarded to Bangladesh Bank for regulatory scrutiny.

"In progress and currently undergoing vetting and evaluation for imminent introduction is the 'Buy Back Agreement' product aimed at financing large-scale agricultural machinery purchases," said Md. Ahsan Jamil Hossain, Vice President and Head of Agri Loan, Midland Bank.

Another ongoing initiative is contract farming, where agro-based industries such as Pran, Square, and others request loans for farmers, with the harvested crop serving as loan collateral while documentation ensures industry accountability.

Abad, Krishok, Nabanno, and Khamar by Prime Bank

"Prime Bank tailors its agriculture and rural credit program, focusing on crops, livestock, and fisheries. It offers collateral-free products, implements digital loan origination systems, and collaborates with agent outlets to serve farmers in remote regions. Defining Agriculture as crop & non-crop by nature, Prime Bank has introduced two products styled Abad and Krishok for crop loans. In contrast, Khamar and Nabanno are running successfully as non-crop loans," mentioned Nazeem A. Choudhury, Deputy Managing Director – Consumer Banking at Prime Bank.

Private commercial banks in Bangladesh are taking proactive measures to improve the country's socio-economic condition and bolster the agricultural and rural sectors by offering a range of agri-loans to farmers. It is encouraging to witness these banks continuously introducing new products each year, aiming to maximize support for farmers, even though it may take time to realize their full potential.​
 

Bangladesh's first onion processing, storage centre set up
Staff Correspondent 30 April, 2024, 22:47

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Representational image.

Giant Agro Processing Company Limited has set up the first onion processing and storage centre in the country with an aim to contribute to a consistent supply of the commodity for consumers while reducing post-harvest losses.

Agriculture minister Abdus Shahid is expected to inaugurate the specialised onion processing and storage centre located at Bhaluka in Mymensingh on May 2.

The onion processing and storage centre has been set up as a part of Onion Impact Cluster project, where Bangladeshi and Dutch private sector companies are participating with support of the Dutch government, Giant Group chairman Feroz M Hassan told New Age on Tuesday.

He stated that the project aimed to bolster Bangladesh's onion industry by implementing pioneering Dutch techniques and knowledge to enhance onion production and storage.

This endeavour seeks to foster local private sector growth, elevate farmers' and entrepreneurs' incomes within the onion sector and reduce dependency on onion imports, Feroz outlined.

Giant Agro Processing Company has set up the onion processing and storage centre with 400 tonnes' capacity on a pilot basis.

'If the technology proves effective, private sector businesses will invest in the sector,' Feroz hoped.

He said that the country had been grappling with onion supply issues for the past few years, with post-harvest losses of the crop reaching nearly 30 per cent.

'If the technology can reduce the post-harvest losses to 10 per cent, the country would be self-sufficient in onion production,' the businessman mentioned.

He also said that despite having potential, private sectors were not making investment in processing and storage of agricultural products in the country due to a lack of supportive environment.

'We do not have the required technology and banks are not interested in financing such long-term business. I will request the government to provide support and ensure low-cost term loan for setting up storage centres,' Feroz said.

If the storage facility is developed in the country, the consistent supply would be ensured and consumers would get onion at lower prices compared to when onion is imported, he mentioned.

'Giant Agro has got involved in this project for two reasons. Firstly, it is a natural expansion of its existing business. Secondly, it is a good initiative for the country, as both the farmers and consumers could benefit from a sustainable supply chain,' Feroz explained.

Supply disruption and price disorder heavily took place on the country's onion market since 2019 and the price of the commodity topped Tk 300 a kilogram in that year.

After that, Bangladesh's onion market experienced frequent supply shortage and surge in price.

Although the harvest of onion just ended in mid-April in the country, the item retailed at Tk 70-80 a kilogram whereas the price was Tk 40-50 a kilogram same time last year.​
 

Agri ministry, Netherlands to hold roundtable on agriculture transformation

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The Ministry of Agriculture and the Embassy of Bangladesh in the Netherlands will jointly convene a roundtable at the Wageningen University in the Netherlands on Monday to discuss future scenarios and ways to transform the agriculture sector of Bangladesh.

Supported by the Saskatchewan University, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the World Bank, and the Gates Foundation will also join the programme, according to a press release.

Md Abdus Shahid, minister for agriculture, will lead the Bangladesh delegation, joined by Wahida Akter, secretary of the agriculture ministry, and SM Bokhtiar, executive chairman of Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council

This roundtable will focus on four key action tracks in Bangladesh agriculture -- improving productivity and farm mechanisation, building a resilient supply chain, and meeting skill gaps.

Scientists, researchers and businessmen will try to launch a few action-oriented initiatives to pilot at the grassroots stage in Bangladesh.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina went to visit the Netherlands, the second largest agro-food exporter globally, in 2015.

During that visit, the Prime Minister said the agriculture sector should be a key priority in cooperation with the Netherlands. She particularly said to introduce some of the transformative technology, innovation and research capabilities to Bangladesh.

In 2022, the Bangladesh Embassy in The Hague held a first-ever open discussion, together with the Wageningen University, on "Future of Bangladesh Agriculture", presenting potential opportunities.

In 2023, the Prime Minister sanctioned funds to undertake three transformative projects with the university to address some of the major challenges faced by small and marginal farmers in Bangladesh.

During the past two years, Bangladesh has been increasingly engaging with the leading global agri-science university.​
 

Boro harvesting of haor areas almost done
4.38 lakh out of 4.53 lakh hectares have already been harvested

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Photo: Sheikh Nasir

Farmers have completed harvesting 97 percent paddy of haor areas in Sylhet, Moulvibazar, Habiganj, Sunamganj, Kishoreganj, Netrokona and Brahmanbaria.

In the seven districts, farmers cultivated boro in 4.53 lakh hectares this year, of which 4.38 lakh hectares have already been harvested.

The government has provided farmers with combined harvesters and reapers with a 70 percent subsidy.

Over 4,400 combine harvesters are currently harvesting paddy in the haors of the seven districts, as 100 new combine harvesters have been allocated this year, according to the Department of Agricultural Extension.

Boro rice has been planted on 55.8 lakh hectares of land this year, with the target of producing 2.22 crore tonnes of boro rice.

Agriculture Minister Md Abdus Shahid recently emphasised the importance of boro rice, stating that it supplies more than half of the country's total rice production throughout the year.

"To boost the cultivation and yield of Boro this year, the government has given seeds, fertilisers, and other necessities worth 215 crores to the farmers free of charge," he said.​