[🇧🇩] Agriculture in Bangladesh

[Saif]

Youth in agriculture

With Bangladesh set on course of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the role of youth in transforming the agricultural sector could never be more critical. Agriculture, which contributes around 12.7 per cent to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) and provides livelihoo

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Youth in agriculture
A strategic imperative for sustainable future

Makhan Lal Dutta
Published :
May 24, 2025 00:20
Updated :
May 24, 2025 00:20

With Bangladesh set on course of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the role of youth in transforming the agricultural sector could never be more critical. Agriculture, which contributes around 12.7 per cent to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) and provides livelihoods for over one-third of the workforce, is at a crossroads. With an aging farming population and increasing urban migration, youth engagement in agriculture has become not only a development priority but also a strategic imperative for national resilience.

The demographic dividend and sectoral disconnect: Bangladesh boasts a youthful population, with approximately 30 per cent aged between 15 and 35. This demographic construct presents immense potential for innovation, entrepreneurship and productivity gains in agriculture. Yet, paradoxically, most young people are disengaged from farming. Agriculture is often perceived as low-income, labour-intensive and lacking in prestige particularly among educated youth. This perception, combined with structural barriers, has led to a widening generational gap in farming communities.

The average age of Bangladeshi farmers is over 50, underscoring a critical concern: Who will feed the nation in the coming decades?

Agribusiness and innovation - Changing the narrative: To reposition agriculture as a viable and attractive career path, it must be seen through the lens of enterprise and innovation. Young people are naturally drawn to technology, adaptability, and entrepreneurship — traits essential for modern agribusiness.

The rise of digital platforms such as iFarmer, Khamar-e, and Krishi Call Centres illustrates how technology can revolutionise access to inputs, market intelligence, finance, and extension services. Youth-led ventures in areas like hydroponics, vertical farming, agri-logistics, and mobile advisory services are already reshaping rural economies.

Bangladesh’s smart farming ecosystem is expanding, but it needs to be scaled and institutionalised.

Structural barriers-Addressing the gaps: Despite emerging opportunities, several persistent barriers hinder meaningful youth participation:

• Limited access to land and finance. Many aspiring young farmers lack legal land ownership and collateral—- conditions that restrict or prevent them from accessing formal credit.

• Skills mismatch.: Existing agricultural curricula often fail to equip youth with practical, entrepreneurial, and climate-resilient farming skills.

• Weak policy implementation.: While youth engagement is mentioned in national policies, translation into grassroots action remains inadequate.

• Social perception: Farming continues to be undervalued socially, which discourages educated youth from entering the sector.
Towards a youth-inclusive agricultural ecosystem: To unlock the full potential of youth in agriculture, Bangladesh must adopt a holistic and forward-looking strategy:

1. Promoting Agripreneurship. Establish dedicated start-up incubators, innovation labs, and business development services tailored to agri-based enterprises.

2. Enhancing access to finance. Introduce youth-friendly financial products, including credit guarantees, micro-insurance, and digital lending platforms.

3. Modernising education and training. Integrate digital agriculture, agribusiness management, and climate-smart practices into formal education and TVET institutions.

4. Facilitate land access. Encourage innovative land-leasing models and cooperatives to support landless rural youth.

5. Strengthen policy frameworks. Operationalise youth-centric policies at the local level through coordinated government, private sector and development partner engagement.

Catalysing green growth through youth: The youth of Bangladesh have already proved themselves as agents of change in agriculture. Whether through drone technology for pest surveillance, bio-fertiliser production, or sustainable aquaculture, they are at the forefront of a green transformation. Institutions like the Krishi Gobeshona Foundation (KGF), Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC), and agricultural universities can play a pivotal role in nurturing this momentum by investing in research, mentorship, and scale-up support for youth-led innovations.

Youth engagement in agriculture is not merely a policy option, it is a necessity for Bangladesh’s food security, rural prosperity, and economic resilience. With the right incentives, enabling environment, and investment in capacity-building, Bangladesh can cultivate a new generation of agripreneurs who will drive sustainable and inclusive growth.
If Bangladesh wants to secure the future of the food systems and rural economies, the time to invest in youth in agriculture is now.

The author is a development professional. He also serves as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Harvesting Knowledge Consultancy.​

 

[Saif]

Our farmers are leading the fight against climate change

Bangladesh offers not just dire warnings but grounded wisdom.

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Our farmers are leading the fight against climate change

Bangladeshi farmers, living on the frontlines of climate disruption, are pioneering solutions that are shaping a new blueprint for survival. File Photo: Palash Khan

In the heart of Bangladesh's rural belt, a silent revolution is underway. While global leaders debate climate action, 1.65 crore Bangladeshi farm households are already battling its impact in the forms of flash floods, prolonged droughts, salinisation, and invasive pests. Between 2000 and 2023, climate-related disasters caused over Tk 1,200 crore in agricultural losses. Yet, amid this turmoil, farmers are pioneering grassroots solutions: floating gardens in flood-prone haors; drought-resistant crops in Rajshahi; and saline-tolerant rice in coastal Satkhira. These innovations—low-cost, climate-smart, and scalable—are quietly transforming survival into resilience. Farmlands in this country are becoming global classrooms for adaptation in a warming world.

Climate volatility has transformed Bangladesh from a fertile delta to a battleground for survival. According to the World Bank'sGroundswell Report (2021), nearly 1.33 crore Bangladeshis may be displaced by climate-induced stress by 2050, most of them in rural areas. Agriculture, which employs over 40 percent of the workforce and contributes 11.2 percent to GDP (BBS, 2023), bears the brunt.

Cyclones Sidr (2007), Aila (2009), and Amphan (2020) alone caused combined agricultural losses exceeding Tk 150 crore. Salinity intrusion, now affecting over 10 lakh hectares in the coastal belt (Soil Resource Development Institute, 2022), is pushing farmers out of traditional rice production. In the northwestern Barind Tract, rainfall variability has reduced monsoon intensity, undermining rainfed farming.

Even more troubling is the collapse of seasonal predictability. Crop calendars that once guided sowing and harvesting have become irrelevant now, making traditional farming knowledge less reliable with each passing year.

Yet, this is not a tale of despair; it is one of ingenuity. Across Bangladesh, farmers are transforming adversity into opportunity through grassroots innovations. In Satkhira, Rahima Begum, once unable to grow rice due to salinity, now cultivates BRRI Dhan67, a salt-tolerant rice variety developed by the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI). This variety tolerates up to eight dS/m salinity and yields 4.5 tonnes per hectare, a lifeline for over 250,000 coastal farmers (BRRI Annual Report, 2022).

In haor (wetland) areas of Kishoreganj and Sunamganj, floating agriculture is making a comeback. Revived with modern composting techniques, these bamboo-based dhap platforms, first documented in the 17th century, are enabling year-round vegetable cultivation on floodwaters. A pilot project by FAO in 2021 found that floating gardens increased household nutrition scores by 35 percent and provided women-led income streams.

In the dry zones of Rajshahi, alternate wetting and drying (AWD) methods, promoted by the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), are helping conserve water by 25-30 percent while maintaining yield. In these drought-prone areas, where groundwater tables are falling by three to four centimetres annually (Barind Multipurpose Development Authority, 2023), AWD adoption is a game changer.

Similarly, farmers are switching to short-duration varieties like BINA Dhan-7 and BINA Dhan-17, which mature in 100-105 days, helping them harvest before floods. Integrated Pest Management (IPM), using pheromone traps and biopesticides, is reducing pesticide costs by 40 percent in pilot districts like Jashore and Natore (Department of Agricultural Extension, 2022).

Women play a critical but under-recognised role in climate adaptation. According to a 2024 study by the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), farms managed or co-managed by women in Bangladesh show 28 percent more crop diversity and 20 percent higher adoption of adaptive techniques.

In Khulna, Fatema Khatun and her group of 35 women farmers transitioned to saline-tolerant vegetables and crab-fattening units. In the north, women-led nurseries and vermicomposting units are diversifying household incomes and ensuring seed availability at local levels. These initiatives often outperform top-down interventions due to their contextual knowledge and community trust.

However, access barriers persist. Only 3.5 percent of women own agricultural land (BBS Gender Statistics, 2023), and fewer than 10 percent receive formal agricultural training. Addressing these gaps is essential to unlocking their full potential in climate resilience.

What Bangladesh's farmers are pioneering are not isolated tactics; they are scalable, cost-effective models for climate adaptation. Floating farms, saline-resistant crops, and community-based irrigation are being studied by global platforms like the CGIAR Initiative on Climate Resilience and FAO's Scaling-Up Agroecology Initiative.

The IPCC Sixth Assessment Report 2022 cites Bangladesh's adaptive agricultural strategies as case studies in successful local adaptation. These strategies align with principles of agroecology, ecosystem-based adaptation, and low-emission development, all vital for meeting the Paris Agreement targets.

Bangladesh's updated National Adaptation Plan (NAP 2023-2050) recognises these innovations, calling for Tk 850 crore in investments in climate-resilient agriculture, research, and early warning systems. The roadmap exists. What's needed now is execution.

Three priority areas demand immediate action. First, climate finance must reach the grassroots, yet as of 2023, only eight percent of international climate funds in Bangladesh reached local communities, according to Climate Finance Transparency Initiative. Second, gender-responsive investments are critical: women farmers must gain access to land rights, finance, and training to scale their contributions. Finally, research and extension services need urgent revitalisation. Institutions like BRRI, Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture (BINA), and Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) require consistent investment to develop and deliver climate-smart technologies that can safeguard livelihoods and secure future harvests.

As the world waits for COP30 in November, Bangladesh offers not just dire warnings but grounded wisdom. Its farmers, living on the frontlines of climate disruption, are pioneering solutions that are shaping a new blueprint for survival. These innovations are not theories from labs, but tested tools from the soil: resilient, scalable, and deeply rooted in lived reality.

This is not a story of despair but of determination. Adaptation is already happening in fields, not forums. But to grow this momentum, global leaders must act where it matters most. Because the future of climate resilience won't be built in air-conditioned halls; it will be grown, seed by seed, in fields.

Dr Shahrina Akhtar is specialist (technical) and research adviser at Krishi Gobeshona Foundation.​

 

[Saif]

Research into nano-urea can transform our agricultural sector

Nano-urea offers a promising solution to tackle present and future challenges in fertiliser supply and sustainability.

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Research into nano-urea can transform our agricultural sector

To cope with the growing population, climate change, and environmental challenges, scientifically sound and sustainable technologies must be adopted in agriculture. PHOTO: MOSTAFA SABUJ

In 1913, the German scientist Fritz Haber successfully synthesised ammonia from atmospheric nitrogen—a breakthrough that laid the foundation for modern chemical fertilisers. Since then, scientists have continually developed new technologies to meet the growing food demands. The most recent and notable addition to this progress is nano-urea, hailed as a groundbreaking advancement in the agricultural sector.

Bangladesh, with its predominantly agrarian economy, relies heavily on fertilisers to meet food demands. To cope with the growing population, climate change, and environmental challenges, scientifically sound and sustainable technologies must be adopted in agriculture. Experts believe that the integration of nanotechnology in agriculture will play a transformative role in ensuring food security and promoting sustainable development.

Amidst global urea shortages, the demand for and necessity of nano-urea is immense. The Bangladesh Chemical Industries Corporation (BCIC) oversees several fertiliser plants, with a combined annual urea production capacity of approximately 2.3 million metric tonnes as of FY 2024–25. In the FY 2023–24, Bangladesh Chemical Industries Corporation (BCIC) produced about 527,271 metric tonnes of urea, necessitating the import of 1.66 million metric tonnes to meet the total demand. Despite efforts to boost domestic production, Bangladesh still relies heavily on imports. In this context, nano-urea offers a promising solution to tackle present and future challenges in fertiliser supply and sustainability.

The use of fertilisers dates back to ancient times, with early civilisations like the Egyptians, Babylonians, and Romans applying natural substances to enrich soil. Scientific approaches emerged in the 18th century with crop rotation and gypsum use. In the 19th century, Justus von Liebig popularised the Law of the Minimum which states that a single and essential resource restricts plant growth even if other resources are abundant, while John Bennet Lawes founded first chemical fertiliser factory. The 20th century brought major advances, including the Haber-Bosch process in 1913, which enabled industrial-scale ammonia production and transformed global agronomy. This legacy of innovation continues today with the advent of nano-urea—a promising frontier in sustainable agriculture.

Urea is an essential nutrient for plant growth. Like food for humans, fertilisers nourish plants. For healthy and balanced growth, plants require a specific set of nutrients, without which their development is impaired. The three primary macronutrients in fertilisers are nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Urea, chemically known as carbamide contains about 46 percent nitrogen, a key component of proteins crucial for vegetative growth. It is highly water-soluble and stable, enhancing the growth of leaves, stems, and overall productivity of the plant.

However, a major drawback of conventional fertilisers is the loss of nutrients after soil application, due to factors like rainwater runoff and evaporation. As a result, plants are often deprived of their required nourishment.

In contrast to conventional urea, the nanotechnology-based fertiliser uses ultrafine particles (20–50 nanometres) and requires up to 80 percent less volume with equal or better yields. A single 500 ml bottle of nano-urea can replace a 45-kg bag of traditional urea. Applied as a foliar spray, nano-urea is directly absorbed by plant leaves, minimising nutrient loss. It delivers nitrogen gradually, ensuring sustained nutrition and reduced environmental harm. As a result, nano-urea is eco-friendly, efficient in smaller quantities, and economically viable—emerging as a promising tool for the future of sustainable agriculture.

Currently, India is leading the production and marketing of nano-urea. Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO) launched the world's first nao-urea in June 2021, marking a breakthrough in sustainable agriculture. IFFCO now has the capacity to produce approximately 200,000 bottles daily. By the end of 2024, the company aims to scale up annual production to three billion bottles, equivalent to 13.5 million tonnes of conventional urea. Nano-urea is already being exported to more than 25 countries, including the United States, Brazil, Mexico, Sri Lanka, and Kenya.

Bangladesh has also begun research on nano-urea as part of agricultural extension efforts. In a recent article, Dr Md Roushon Jamal highlighted the growing importance of nano-urea in the country. Although the use of nanotechnology for urea production is still in its early stages in Bangladesh, institutions like Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), and Gazipur Agricultural University (GAU) have initiated exploratory research in this field. Notably, Prof Dr Md Jabed Hossain Khan, a professor of the Department of Chemical Engineering at Jashore University of Science and Technology (JUST), has made a significant breakthrough by successfully developing a locally produced nano-urea fertiliser. According to his findings, cultivating one bigha of land would require only Tk 230 worth of nano-urea—a stark contrast to the current cost of around Tk 4,200, suggesting a potential cost reduction of approximately 82 percent. However, extensive research is still needed to fully understand the effects of nano-urea due to its unique composition and nanoscale properties.

From early dependence on organic fertilisers to the chemical revolution introduced by conventional urea, agriculture is now entering a new era with the advent of advanced nano-urea. To build a resilient agricultural future, Bangladesh must adopt a holistic strategy that promotes research and development, enhances logistics and infrastructure, supports farmer training programmes, ensures the production of nano-urea that meets global standards, and encourages its field-level application. With these measures in place, Bangladesh holds the potential to build a green, sustainable, agriculture-based economy. And nano-urea could be a key driving force in realising that vision.

Dr Md. Wasikur Rahman is professor at the Department of Chemical Engineering, Jashore University of Science and Technology and assistant research scientist at the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley.​

 

[Saif]

Smart farming to help farmers

During its emergence as an independent nation more than half a century back, agriculture was the mainstay of the economy with 85 per cent of the population dependent on it. And agriculture's share of the GDP was 80 per cent. With increase in productivity through irrigation, introduction of high yie

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Smart farming to help farmers

SYED FATTAHUL ALIM
Published :
May 26, 2025 23:40
Updated :
May 26, 2025 23:40

During its emergence as an independent nation more than half a century back, agriculture was the mainstay of the economy with 85 per cent of the population dependent on it. And agriculture's share of the GDP was 80 per cent. With increase in productivity through irrigation, introduction of high yielding varieties of crops including intermediate crops, better inputs and mechanisation, employment in the sector has gradually declined and now 45 per cent of the population still depends on agriculture for work. With simultaneous developments in the industrial and the service sectors, agriculture's contribution to GDP has come down to around 11 per cent, according to official statistics. Actually, due to increased productivity, agriculture's share of the GDP should be higher and, unofficially, it is believed that it is around 17-18 per cent.

Fragmentation of land due to inheritance and ever-shrinking area of arable land thanks to urbanisation, now per capita land available is around 0.67 acres. This is too small for commercial agriculture (which requires at least 300 to 500acres) to expand. So, self-sufficiency in food will be confined to mere political slogans, while food security remaining an unresolved issue. So to make the most of whatever we have, optimal use of technology and improved management techniques can still play their roles. Agricultural startups (agri-tech startups) are emerging globally to meet growing demand for food. Bangladesh is no exception. Bangladeshi agri-tech startups are offering financial solutions to farmers, helping with marketing linkages as well as providing information and technology services. However, to enable farmers to utllise the agri-tech services, there should be a government programme to increase digital literacy among farmers.

At the same time, cheap credit should be available among small and medium scale farmers, so they might use the services being provided by the startups. Similarly, for the agri-tech startups to be able to expand and widen their services, the government would also be required to play its facilitating role through extending policy and other types of support to them. It is worthwhile to note here that with the advancement of technologies such as AI and IoT (Internet of Things-physical objects embedded with software, sensors and other technologies so they might connect and exchange data with each other over the internet) and big data analytics to influence future agticultural practices everywhere sooner or later, a wave of new opportunities for the startups are being created. The emerging trends and the promises the technologies offer include, for instance, precision agriculture, AI-driven crop management, IoT integration, robotics and automation, blockchain for traceability and transparency, and lastly, sustainability and climate resilience. Together these trends make up what is known as smart farming.

The first-noted precision agriculture is about the use of data to leverage farming techniques. This helps the farmer to assess production factors like soil, water and crop health. Making use of satellite imaging, GPS and sensory technology, the farmer can apply water, fertilisers and pesticides correctly enhancing productivity and minimizing wastage. In traditional farming, the same treatment is applied to the entire field. But in precision agriculture, inputs are tailored to real-time data helping farmers to monitor soil health, know about changing weather patterns and decide on when to go for planting or harvesting. As noted in the foregoing, key technologies used in precision farming include GPS (Global Positioning System) and GIS (Geographical Information System).

These technologies help farmers to create detailed maps of their fields so they can identify variations in soil fertility, moisture levels and crop growth. IoT sensors collect data on soil moisture, temperature and plant health, while drones take real-time images of pest attack and nutrient deficiencies, etc. Automation driven by AI, on the other hand, helps tractors, seeders and harvesters cut labour costs and ensure precise application of inputs. Variable Rate Technology (VRT) is another aspect of precision agriculture that helps decide the amounts of water, fertilisers and pesticides based on the conditions at different spots of the same field. All the technologies which are part of precision agriculture can help farmers to be economical, precise and less wasteful in applying the inputs. However, agri-tech startups will be there to assist farmers to use the technologies.​

 

[Saif]

Advanced agri-info tool for farmers

Given that the amount of arable land is not only limited but has also been shrinking over the years, while the population depending on it for food and work is ever-growing, it was understood long before the emergence of the modern hi-tech era that technology was the answer to agriculture's Achilles

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Advanced agri-info tool for farmers

FE
Published :
May 28, 2025 00:14
Updated :
May 28, 2025 00:14

Given that the amount of arable land is not only limited but has also been shrinking over the years, while the population depending on it for food and work is ever-growing, it was understood long before the emergence of the modern hi-tech era that technology was the answer to agriculture's Achilles heel, its low productivity. A series of discussion events has been hel of late with the participation of stakeholders including people from the government's ministry concerned and experts both local and from abroad. At one such talks held recently in the city, the government came up with its 'Agriculture Future Outlook Plan 2025' which is said to be a strategic roadmap to deliver the fruits of advanced technology to the farming community's doorstep.

The key aspect of the strategic roadmap was a mobile application software developed by the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC), the apex agri-research body under the Ministry of Agriculture. The app styled 'Khamari app' is said to be a repository of comprehensive agricultural information and tools unlike similar ones released in the past. The previous such apps, for instance, the one bearing identical name was released in November, 2023. But that app was focused on reducing expenses only on fertilizer as well as increasing crop yield. However, the latest version of the 'Khamari app' is reportedly, a comprehensive one as it would provide a wider range of information such as crop recommendation based on land suitability, fertility, fertiliser requirements, seed quantities, cropping patterns, etc. Also, it would, as told by its innovators, provide real-time market information thereby helping farmers to adopt pricing and sales strategies.

The app would also provide farmers with crop management tools enabling them to optimise farming practices. No doubt, the new app has enormous potential and it is hoped its intended users would be able to put the digital information tool to good use. However, the problem is the literacy rate among farmers is very low. True, most of them are familiar with modern smart phones and they can use those for personal communication as well as operate the inbuilt digital camera. But when it comes to reading and understanding information, let alone scientific information, then it would be a real challenge both before the potential users and the introducers of the app. In that case, the real task before the agricultural extension workers would be to make the intended users, the marginal, small and medium farmers digitally literate so they might take decisions on sensitive matters including crop management, application of inputs, marketing their crops and so on.

More important than the literacy issue is the lack of capital, especially among the small and marginal farmers. In fact, from buying inputs such as seeds, fertilisers, pesticides and maintaining cost of irrigation to hiring help for hoeing, harvesting, post-harvest transport cost to market their crops, they are constantly handicapped by financial constraints. Similarly, buying a digital device to operate the particular app for required information related to production and marketing is also going to be an additional investment for the cash-strapped farmers. While the government's priority will be ensuring the nation's food security, for farmers it will be maintaining a livelihood with at least two square meals a day. Hopefully, the government's central focus would be on farmers, the potential users of the 'Khamari app'.​

 

[Saif]

Jashore farmers reap good profits from paddy farming

Farmer Tahid Moni of Jashore has been earning Tk 17,000 to Tk 20,000 in profit by cultivating paddy on one bigha of land. He considers paddy cultivation his source of year-round financial security. Despite the rising production costs, he is still able to make a good profit from paddy cultivation

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Jashore farmers reap good profits from paddy farming

OUR CORRESPONDENT
Published :
May 28, 2025 09:55
Updated :
May 28, 2025 09:55

Farmer Tahid Moni of Jashore has been earning Tk 17,000 to Tk 20,000 in profit by cultivating paddy on one bigha of land.

He considers paddy cultivation his source of year-round financial security. Despite the rising production costs, he is still able to make a good profit from paddy cultivation alone.

Moni said that due to the increasing price of essentials and fertilisers, many farmers tend to move away from paddy farming.

However, he continues to grow paddy without any major difficulties.

This season, he cultivated paddy on six and a half bighas of land. Due to untimely rain, some of the crops were damaged. Yet he harvested 145 maunds of paddy. According to his calculations, after all expenses, including fertilisers and labour, he made a profit of approximately Tk 24,500.

Another farmer, Aiyub Hossain, said he has been cultivating BRRI paddy on six and a half bighas for the past eight years.

This year, heavy rainfall damaged some parts of his crop, but he still managed to get a decent yield.Officials from the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) said if weather remains favourable and irrigation and fertilisation are done properly, farmers can easily profit from paddy cultivation.

The paddy farmers of Jashore are reaping good profits this year despite high input costs.

According to local farmers, cultivating one bigha (33 decimals) of land for paddy requires an investment of around Tk 12,000 to Tk 20,000, including irrigation, fertilisers, pesticides and labour. Water for irrigation from deep tube-wells costs Tk 2,000 per bigha, with an additional Tk 4,000 to Tk 6,000 spent on fertilisers and pesticides.

Seedlings and land preparation can cost Tk 1,000 to Tk 2,000, while harvesting expenses may reach up to Tk 3,000. In total, the cost per bigha can climb to Tk 20,000.

However, with paddy selling at Tk 1,200 to Tk 1,300 per maund (approximately 37 kg), each bigha yields 12 to 15 maunds, resulting in gross earnings of Tk 14,400 to Tk 19,500 per bigha-often leaving farmers with profits of up to Tk 5,000.

Farmers are finding this season particularly profitable due to favourable weather and high market prices.

With production costs mostly covered, many are using the profit for household expenses or to pay off previous loans.

Farmers of Bablur Rahman, Shahinur Rahman, Ali Hossain, Ajimuddin in Jashore's Sharsha, Jhikargacha, Manirampur, Bagharpara, and Keshabpur upazilas said that despite fears of losses earlier in the season due to rising input prices, they are now relieved. Fields are filled with mature, golden paddy ready for harvest. Local farmers like

Agricultural officers confirmed that both yield and quality were above average this season. Abdur Rashid, Deputy Director of the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) in Jashore, said, "Around 0.25 million (2.5 lakh) tonnes of boro paddy have been harvested across 62,000 hectares. The average yield was 4.5 tonnes per hectare."

He added that farmers received proper support, and many used hybrid varieties that yielded more grain.​

 

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Agricultural credit recovery increases by 8pc in July-March

The recovery of agricultural credits has increased by 8 per cent during the first nine months of the current fiscal year 2024-2025 (FY25) compared to the same period of the previous fiscal. In July-March of FY25, the recovery of agricultural credit by all scheduled banks increased by 8 percent to

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Agricultural credit recovery increases by 8pc in July-March

BSS
Published :
May 30, 2025 18:23
Updated :
May 30, 2025 18:23

The recovery of agricultural credits has increased by 8 per cent during the first nine months of the current fiscal year 2024-2025 (FY25) compared to the same period of the previous fiscal.

In July-March of FY25, the recovery of agricultural credit by all scheduled banks increased by 8 percent to Tk 274.43 billion compared to Tk 254.11 billion during the same period of the fiscal year 2023-24 (FY24), according to the Bangladesh Bank (BB) latest data.

This overall increase was primarily driven by the 14.26 percent rise in recoveries from Private Commercial Banks (PCBs) and 8.92 percent rise in recoveries from State owned Specialized Banks (SOSBs).

In contrast, State-Owned Commercial Banks (SOCBs) and Foreign Commercial Banks (FCBs) recorded a decline of 1.72 percent and 52.08 percent respectively in recovery.

According to the data, recovery of agricultural credit by all scheduled banks was Tk 30.20 billion in March of FY25, reflecting a 14.10 percent rise from Tk 26.46 billion recovered in February of FY25 and a 9.84 percent increase compared to Tk 27.49 billion recovered in March of FY24.

The highest recovery of Tk 37.64 billion was made in September last year, while the lowest, Tk 25.54 billion, was recorded in July.

However, scheduled banks have disbursed Tk 248.61 billion of agricultural loan during the first nine-month of the fiscal.

Of the total amount, state-owned banks disbursed over Tk 101.33 billion, while foreign and private commercial banks together provided over Tk 14,727 billion.

In July-March of FY25, agricultural credit disbursement by all scheduled banks remained crop-focused, with the crops sub-sector receiving 47 percent of total credit, up from 45 percent in the same period of FY24.

Livestock and poultry rose slightly to 25 percent in July-March of FY25 from 24 percent in July-March of FY24, while fisheries increased to 15 percent in July-March of FY25 from 14 percent in July-March of FY24.

Conversely, allocations to poverty alleviation and other sectors fell to 4 percent and 9 percent in July-March of FY25 from 6 percent and 11 percent in July-March of FY24 respectively.

These shifts highlight a stronger emphasis on crops and fisheries. These shifts indicate a reallocation of resources toward more productive subsectors, with increased emphasis on crops and fisheries for contributing to food security, while support for poverty alleviation and other sectors has seen a relative decline.

The central bank said BB provides consistent support to Bangladesh Krishi Bank (BKB) and Rajshahi Krishi Unnayan Bank (RAKUB) through a short-term agricultural refinance facility backed by government guarantee to promote agricultural development and ensure food security.

The agricultural credit disbursement target has been set at Tk 380.00 billion for all scheduled banks in FY25, marking an 8.57 percent increase compared to the disbursement target of Tk 350.00 billion for the previous fiscal year.

The target of agricultural credit disbursement comprises Tk 33.15 billion for SOCBs, Tk 93.00 billion for SOSBs, Tk 241.21 billion for PCBs, and Tk 12.64 billion for FCBs for FY25.​

 

[Saif]

Artificial intelligence in agriculture

SINCE its emergence as an independent nation, Bangladesh has relied heavily on agriculture as the bedrock of its economy. To this day, the sector continues to employ more than a third of the national workforce. Recent figures from Statista (2025)...

www.newagebd.net

Artificial intelligence in agriculture
by Kazi Md Samiul Hoq 31 May, 2025, 00:00

SINCE its emergence as an independent nation, Bangladesh has relied heavily on agriculture as the bedrock of its economy. To this day, the sector continues to employ more than a third of the national workforce. Recent figures from Statista (2025) indicate that 36.86 per cent of the country’s working population remains engaged in agriculture. Yet, despite this central role, the sector is beset with enduring challenges — low productivity, inefficient supply chains, volatile prices and restricted market access chief among them. These obstacles have long impeded the ability of agricultural entrepreneurs to evolve beyond mere subsistence and embrace a more market-oriented model. Against the backdrop of a global digital shift, a pressing question now emerges: are agri-entrepreneurs in Bangladesh prepared to adopt artificial intelligence for strategic marketing?

Artificial Intelligence is no longer a distant concept confined to academic journals or futuristic labs. In modern agriculture, it is already reshaping operations — introducing automation, data-driven decision-making and predictive insights that enhance productivity and profitability. Artificial intelligence-powered tools offer considerable promise for Bangladeshi agri-entrepreneurs. With predictive analytics, farmers can better anticipate market demand, monitor pricing patterns and decode consumer trends, enabling them to align production and distribution strategies with real-time data. Moreover, artificial intelligence allows for nuanced customer segmentation — distinguishing, for instance, between urban retail buyers and wholesale rural markets. Even logistics, long a pain point for rural producers, can be revolutionised through intelligent systems that reduce post-harvest losses and streamline supply chains.

While such developments may appear out of reach in Bangladesh, they are already taking root in other parts of Asia. China, in particular, has made notable strides through initiatives like ‘rural taobao,’ developed by Alibaba. This programme has provided farmers with AI-enhanced tools for direct-to-consumer engagement, dramatically increasing both market access and income in remote regions. In comparison, Bangladesh’s digital farming initiatives — iFarmer and Krishi Network being notable examples — show considerable potential but remain disjointed. Though these platforms connect farmers with finance, advisory services and market data, they lack the comprehensive, AI-integrated ecosystems seen in China. The technology exists, the interest is growing, yet overall readiness remains uncertain.

The reasons for this hesitancy are multifaceted. Perhaps the most significant barrier is digital illiteracy. As Dr Shahana Esmh noted in a 2022 study, ‘Without digital literacy, AI tools are useless to rural farmers who cannot interpret or trust what the technology is telling them.’ Most smallholder farmers in Bangladesh have limited, if any, experience with data platforms, AI dashboards, or mobile applications that require understanding of analytics or predictive charts. This digital unfamiliarity is further exacerbated by infrastructural shortcomings. Many rural regions suffer from poor internet connectivity, rendering even the most sophisticated technologies inaccessible.

Affordability also poses a major obstacle. Advanced technologies come at a cost that many smallholders simply cannot shoulder. Amina Binte Karim, who runs an agri-tech startup in Rajshahi, aptly remarked, ‘Most rural farmers cannot afford a system they barely understand and do not see immediate returns from.’ The lack of supportive policy compounds the problem. A 2023 report by the Bangladesh Centre for Advanced Studies highlights the dearth of government incentives in this domain. There is minimal state-led investment in rural digital infrastructure, little to no support for AI-focused agricultural research, and a near-total absence of programmes designed to upskill farmers in digital literacy. In contrast, China’s progress has been underpinned by robust state intervention: strategic investments in rural connectivity, subsidies for e-commerce platforms, and nationwide training initiatives. As Dr Qiang Li of JD Agriculture remarked at a global forum, ‘Our strength was not just technology — it was our ability to make that technology usable by everyone, even a 60-year-old farmer in a remote village.’

For Bangladesh to harness artificial intelligence in agriculture meaningfully, a coordinated, inclusive strategy is imperative. To begin with, the formulation of a National Digital Agriculture Policy is long overdue. Such a policy must encourage private sector involvement, fund artificial intelligence-centric agricultural research and prioritise investment in rural infrastructure. Equally vital is the localisation of technology. This involves developing interfaces in Bangla, incorporating voice commands, and simplifying tools for users with minimal literacy. Research underscores the importance of local language innovation, noting that such adaptations significantly enhance adoption rates, especially when paired with intuitive design.

Furthermore, digital literacy must be placed at the heart of any technological transformation. Government agencies, non-profits and private enterprises need to collaborate to offer practical training, demonstration projects, and peer-led learning models. Farmers are more likely to trust a technology when they see a neighbour benefit from it. Additionally, expanding broadband infrastructure in rural areas must be treated as a national development priority, with subsidies extended to telecom operators willing to venture into under-served zones. Supporting innovation from within is also essential. Establishing startup incubators focused on artificial intelligence applications in agriculture could nurture homegrown solutions. These incubators should provide seed capital, mentorship and access to markets. Finally, a centralised, open-access agri-data platform must be developed — one that offers real-time updates on market prices, soil health, pest outbreaks and weather patterns, accessible to all stakeholders from policymakers to the smallest landholders.

Ultimately, artificial intelligence-enhanced strategic marketing is no longer a distant ideal — it is a practical necessity. The agricultural landscape globally is undergoing a rapid transformation and data is now as critical as water or fertiliser. Should Bangladesh fail to embrace this shift, its agri-sector risks falling further behind, left mired in inefficiencies while neighbouring economies surge ahead. China’s journey is not merely instructive — it is a workable model. As Dr Wei aptly put it, ‘The future of farming lies in the hands of those who combine data with soil.’ Bangladesh possesses the soil and the human resources. What remains is the infrastructure, the vision, and the will to act. The moment for deliberation has passed. The imperative now is action.

Kazi Md Samiul Hoq is BBA student at the North South University.​

 

[Saif]

Export-oriented agro industries emphasised

Home affairs and agriculture adviser Jahangir Alam Chowdhury on Saturday said Bangladesh’s agro-based industries should be more export-oriented to prepare the sector to face post-LDC graduation challenges...

www.newagebd.net

Export-oriented agro industries emphasised
Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha . Dhaka 31 May, 2025, 22:49

Home affairs and agriculture adviser Jahangir Alam Chowdhury on Saturday said Bangladesh’s agro-based industries should be more export-oriented to prepare the sector to face post-LDC graduation challenges.

Jahangir Alam said this at a workshop titled- Local Level Stakeholders Consultation on Inclusive, Smooth and Sustainable LDC Graduation in Munshiganj.

Support to Sustainable Graduation Project (SSGP) of the Economic Relations Division (ERD) organised the workshop in collaboration with the Munshiganj district administration at Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Room.

Industries adviser Adilur Rahman Khan, special assistant to the chief adviser Anisuzzaman Chowdhury and ERD Secretary Shahriar Kader Siddiky also attended the workshop as guests.

Deputy Commissioner of Munshiganj Fatema Tul Jannat was in the chair while SSGP Project Director AHM Jahangir delivered the welcome speech.

Priority should be given on good governance for preparing the country for post-graduation challenges, Jahangir Alam said.

Industries Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan said Munshiganj has all the potentials to become a major hub for small and medium enterprises.

Focusing on the development experience of East and South-East Asian countries, special assistant to the chief adviser Anisuzzaman Chowdhury stressed on national unity and solidarity for achieving the long-term national goals.

ERD secretary Shahriar Kader Siddiky emphasized on active initiatives from the private sector along with the government in meeting the challenges of LDC graduation. He also observed that there are scopes for setting up a biotechnology village in Munshiganj.

Former additional secretary to the government and Component Manager of SSGP Dr. Rezaul Bashar delivered a presentation providing an overview of LDC Graduation process and its implications.

Former Member of Bangladesh Trade and Tariff Commission and Component Manager of SSGP Dr. Mostafa Abid Khan delivered a presentation on “Strategies for Smooth and Sustainable Graduation, and the Role of Local Level Stakeholders.”

International Trade Expert of SSGP Nesar Ahmed, Principal of Govt. Haraganga College Professor Nazmun Nahar, ADC (Education and ICT) of Munshiganj Mahmudur Rahman Khondoker, founder of Yunus Khan Memorial College Faridur Rahman Khan and President of Munshiganj Press Club Bachiruddin Jewel spoke on the occasion.

Speakers at the workshop observed that there are huge potentials for developing agro-processing and tourism industries in Munshiganj.

In this context, they called for infrastructure development, expansion of transport networks, ensuring the supply of gas and electricity in factories and skill enhancement of the local youth.

It is notable that Bangladesh met all the criteria for graduation from the LDC status during the triennial review of the Committee for Development Policy (CDP) of the United Nations back in 2018 and 2021.

The country is set to leave the list of LDCs by 2026 after enjoying a preparatory period of five years. Bangladesh is attaching highest priority to ensure smooth and sustainable graduation with momentum.

The country has also formulated a Smooth Transition Strategy (STS) in cooperation with the relevant stakeholders.

ERD has undertaken a project called “Support to Sustainable Graduation Project (SSGP)” to identify the impacts of graduation, provide necessary capacity-building supports and other necessary supports to the relevant ministries as well as to promulgate this historic achievement at home and abroad by producing various research papers and publications related to graduation.

In this context, ERD, with support from SSGP, has been organizing a series of workshops at the local level to sensitize the grassroots-level stakeholders regarding the process and opportunities of LDC graduation as well as to discuss on how the local-level stakeholders can be involved in the process of ensuring smooth and sustainable LDC graduation.

Officials from ERD and SSGP, officials from the district administration as well as representatives from the private sector and civil society organizations participated in the workshop.​

 

[Saif]

Govt seeks drone technology from China for agriculture sector

The commerce adviser made the call during a meeting with the visiting Chinese commerce minister

www.thedailystar.net

Govt seeks drone technology from China for agriculture sector

The commerce adviser made the call during a meeting with the visiting Chinese commerce minister

Commerce Adviser Sk Bashir Uddin today sought drone technology from the Chinese government for use in the agricultural sector, saying such cooperation would help strengthen bilateral trade relations between the two countries.

The adviser made the request during a meeting with visiting Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao, held at the InterContinental Hotel in Dhaka, according to a statement from the commerce ministry.

Drone technology can be applied in fertiliser application, seed transplantation, pesticide use, and crop auditing, the adviser said.

Chinese experience and technology can play an important role in advancing Bangladesh's agriculture sector, the statement added.

Two memoranda of understanding were signed between Bangladesh and China in this regard.

The Chinese minister also said his country is ready to support Bangladesh in adopting this technology.​