[🇧🇩] Agriculture in Bangladesh

[Saif]

'Bangladesh holds strategic significance in Bayer's growth map'

The Better Life Farming (BLF) initiative is a key global effort aimed at achieving this goal. Bangladesh is a key target country for Bayer’s BLF initiative, which is rapidly expanding its reach within the country, said Simon-Thorsten Wiebusch, Cluster Head, Bayer CropScience, India, Banglades

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

'Bangladesh holds strategic significance in Bayer's growth map'

FE Online
Published :
Jun 18, 2025 18:13
Updated :
Jun 18, 2025 18:13

Simon-Thorsten Wiebusch, Cluster Head of Bayer CropScience for India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka (right), is discussing with Md. Fazlur Rahman, Chairman of BCIC and Bayer CropScience Ltd, Bangladesh (middle), and Zahidul Islam, Managing Director of Bayer CropScience Ltd (left)

The Better Life Farming (BLF) initiative is a key global effort aimed at achieving this goal. Bangladesh is a key target country for Bayer’s BLF initiative, which is rapidly expanding its reach within the country, said Simon-Thorsten Wiebusch, Cluster Head, Bayer CropScience, India, Bangladesh & Sri Lanka (IBSL), during an interview with The Financial Express. Text of the interview follows:

Question (Q): Mr Wiebusch, how does Bayer view Bangladesh in terms of its agricultural market potential within the South Asia region?

Answer (A): Agriculture in Bangladesh has tremendous potential. Its large population and rising demand for food has created a significant opportunity for innovative solutions. The country’s strong agricultural backbone aligns with Bayer’s mission to transform farming through technology, productivity, and sustainability.

Q: What potential do you see in the Bangladeshi agricultural sector for Bayer's future growth?

A: Bangladesh has a young, dynamic farming community that’s increasingly open to adopting new technologies. The government is investing in modernizing agriculture, which creates opportunities for Bayer to introduce high-yield seeds, crop protection products, and digital farming tools. There’s also significant potential in areas like climate-resilient agriculture and precision farming.

Q: What is Bayer’s mid-to-long-term plan for Bangladesh?

A: Our plan is focused on expanding our footprint in Bangladesh by deepening farmer outreach, introducing new innovations, and building stronger local partnerships. We aim to bring more hybrid seeds, invest in training programs,advance agronomic practices by combining seeds, best crop protection solutions and ensuring soil health to ensure regenerative agriculture in Bangladesh.. Additionally, we're exploring collaborations with startups and Agri-tech platforms to accelerate digital transformation— all with the broader goal of meeting the growing need for nutritional security for 220 Million Bangladeshi's, while also enabling potential export opportunities in the future.

Q: Operating in a new market often comes with unique challenges. What has Bayer’s experience been in Bangladesh?

A: Every market has its own nuances and challenges. In Bangladesh, the opportunities far outweigh the challenges and with strong cooperation from the government and local stakeholders we are confident of overcoming the challenges. Our focus is on building long-term relationships rooted in trust, transparency, and shared value.

Q: Can you highlight some of Bayer’s ongoing initiatives that are making a difference in Bangladesh?

A: Certainly. We’ve launched farmer education programs focused on safe and effective use of crop protection solutions. Bayer has also initiated collaborations to support women in agriculture and promote sustainable practices. Our product portfolio is being continuously expanded to ensure farmers have access to the best inputs available. One such very successful initiative are the Better Life Farming centres set up by Bayer in Bangladesh.Bayer has set an SDG goal to empower 100 million smallholder farmers worldwide by 2030. The Better Life Farming (BLF) initiative is a key global effort aimed at achieving this goal. Bangladesh is a key target country for Bayer’s BLF initiative, which is rapidly expanding its reach within the country.

The BLF initiative seeks to enhance the income and living standards of smallholder farmers by providing holistic solutions both on and off the crop field, primarily through increased yields and the smart utilization of resources. With approximately 1,000 BLF centers nationwide, Bayer is connecting with smallholder farmers to offer innovative crop protection solutions and high-yield hybrid seeds. We also share knowledge of modern agricultural technology through extensive training sessions, result demonstrations, and method showcases led by dedicated agronomists.

As part of Bayer’s stewardship commitment, BLF promotes the safe use of pesticides among farmers. Additionally, we are exploring collaborations with technology, nutrient, and other industries to address needs beyond quality seeds and crop protection solutions.

Q: What kind of support or policy framework would you like to see from the Bangladesh government to encourage further investment?

A: A stable and predictable regulatory environment is key. We also welcome policies that encourage innovation, protect intellectual property, and support digital infrastructure in rural areas. Public-private partnerships, faster registration of new products and technologies and increased investment in agri-research will further boost the confidence of large and established companies like Bayer.​

 

[Saif]

Govt needs to take measures to stop farmland loss

A GRADUAL loss of agricultural land poses a threat to food security. A Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics survey report says that farmland has been eroded by 3.75 per cent over eight years. The survey, covering 2015–2023 and highlighting some critical environmental and climate issues, says that a...

www.newagebd.net

Govt needs to take measures to stop farmland loss
24 June, 2025, 00:00

A GRADUAL loss of agricultural land poses a threat to food security. A Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics survey report says that farmland has been eroded by 3.75 per cent over eight years. The survey, covering 2015–2023 and highlighting some critical environmental and climate issues, says that a lack of commitment to saving farmland and rapid, unplanned urbanisation are mainly responsible for the loss. The survey also says that natural forest cover has decreased by 5.41 per cent in the period although there has been a 27.36 per cent increase in planted forests. The loss of farmland and natural forests has a direct impact on food production and food security. The gradual loss will only exacerbate the already fragile food security. Bangladesh slipped by three notches in the Global Hunger Index 2024 and ranked 84th among 127 nations. The alarming state of farmland loss came to light in a number of studies too, but the authorities appear to have taken little effective measures to save agricultural land.

The Agricultural Census 2019, for instance, shows that net cultivable land had decreased by 2 per cent over a decade. The decline has for long been a matter of concern as the economy still heavily relies on agricultural production and unplanned industrialisation along with the unauthorised conversion of farmland for commercial use continues unchecked. Experts point out that ambiguities in land use legislation, coupled with weak enforcement, are a major contributing factor to the steady loss of farmland. Enacting an effective law is, therefore, an essential first step towards a better land governance. Legislation alone, however, cannot effectively halt the destruction of arable land. Reports have documented cases where influential individuals or groups have repurposed farmland for commercial ventures in violation of laws and regulations while the authorities have largely remained indifferent. The widespread loss of topsoil because of illegal brick kilns is another known issue. A previous study estimates that around 25 billion bricks are produced annually using conventional methods that destroy about 100 million tonnes of topsoil. The government has not only failed to curb the commercial misuse of agricultural land but has in many instances undertaken development projects that have caused the destruction of farmland.

The government should, therefore, take the issue of farmland loss and associated risks of food insecurity seriously and take early steps to amend laws and rework policies. The government needs to take action against industrial establishments and brick kilns illegally built on agricultural land and review the land use policy to stop its development projects that destroy farmland.​

 

[Saif]

How to ensure a transparent rice supply chain

Food on the plate is the very first thing people need every day, and with rice being the staple, its price is a matter of overriding concern for the general public. When rice prices soar, the poor and low-income people become more food insecure. A steady rise in rice prices has already forced this

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

How to ensure a transparent rice supply chain

Atiqul Kabir Tuhin
Published :
Jun 25, 2025 23:49
Updated :
Jun 25, 2025 23:49

Food on the plate is the very first thing people need every day, and with rice being the staple, its price is a matter of overriding concern for the general public. When rice prices soar, the poor and low-income people become more food insecure. A steady rise in rice prices has already forced this low-income people to spend a disproportionate share of their earnings on rice alone, cutting back on fish, meat, and other vital sources of protein. As such, rice price is a major public concern and a particularly sensitive issue.

Yet the rice market remains highly vulnerable to manipulation, dominated by large millers and traders. This syndicate exploits the system for windfall profits by hoarding and creating artificial shortages. On one hand, they short-change farmers, leaving them barely able to recover production costs; on the other, they charge consumers exorbitantly high prices.

Large millers exert control over virtually every stage of the supply chain, from the initial procurement of paddy and its subsequent processing, storage to the final stages of distribution to wholesalers and retailers. This monopoly has created a fertile ground for market distortions.

For example, in this Boro season, large millers have purchased paddy from farmers at low prices before Eid, stored it in warehouses, and are now raising prices under various pretexts. Over the past week, rice prices have soared by Tk 2 to 8 per kilogram, despite the bumper harvest and adequate stock. According to the Department of Agricultural Extension, a record 21.4 million tonnes of Boro paddy have been harvested from 0.48 million hectares of land. So the question is, why is this sudden price hike in spite of the good harvest and adequate stock?

To curb persistent inflation, the government has been pursuing a contractionary monetary policy since assuming office about 10 months back. Besides, over 200 traders were given permission to import rice and the import duties were substantially waived. And yet, despite these significant initiatives, there has been little to no reflection of their intended impact on the rice market. Even though the overall inflation trend shows a modest downward trajectory and prices for most other consumer items have begun to cool, rice remains an exception. A brief, modest decline was indeed observed in the past month, largely due to the peak Boro harvesting season. However, as soon as the newly harvested rice left the hands of farmers and entered the supply chain, millers began increasing prices. This has been a recurring issue for years, and it is time to establish much-needed transparency and accountability in this murky supply chain.

In order to do so, the policymakers can consider establishing a comprehensive and integrated rice supply network which would create a system of transparency and accountability. It could begin with a mandatory, dedicated rice supply chain registration and licensing system. Every single actor involved in the rice supply chain, from the individual farmer who sells directly to the market in large quantities, to intermediaries like wholesalers, millers, traders, dealers, and hoarders, and finally to large-scale retailers, would be legally required to hold a specific license to deal in rice. Only licensed individuals or entities would be permitted to engage in any rice-related trade activity, whether it's processing, large-scale storage, or marketing. Robust mechanisms should be established to collect and maintain accurate, up-to-date data on all license holders, including their legal identity, operational capacity (e.g., milling capacity, storage capacity), geographic location, and business history. All this comprehensive license holder data would be centrally stored at the upazila and district level for localised monitoring.

Besides, all the millers and traders throughout the supply chain should be mandated to submit weekly updates regarding their current stock levels of paddy and rice, volumes produced or processed, utilisation of their licensed storage capacity, purchase and selling prices, and total sales volumes from the preceding week. These weekly reports should be submitted directly to the respective Deputy Commissioner's office, which would be responsible for receiving, verifying, and analysing this data. Such frequent data submission would allow for the early detection of unusual spikes in stock levels that could flag potential hoarding. This constant scrutiny would also act as a powerful deterrent against illegal stockpiling outside registered capacities, making it difficult for unscrupulous entities to manipulate supply or prices without detection. Furthermore, real-time data on supply, demand, and prices would enable the government to make more informed decisions regarding imports, exports, and market interventions.

While some consumer protection measures currently exist at the retail level, they are insufficient to oversee the entire complex supply chain. Department of Consumer Rights Protection (DCRP) will have to play a pivotal role, coordinating closely with district administrations. They will have to regularly inspect the licensed warehouses to verify reported stock levels against actual inventory, cross-check their transaction documents, and ensure full compliance with all licensing rules and reporting requirements.

Lastly, it will require strong collaboration among relevant ministries, particularly the Ministry of Food, the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Commerce. Through such a unified, inter-ministerial approach, the rice supply chain can be managed in a coherent manner, rather than the current fragmented system. This will pave the way for a transparent supply chain.

Ultimately, the successful implementation of such a unified licensing and monitoring framework can dramatically improve transparency and eliminate entrenched malpractice in the rice market. A transparent supply chain is not only essential for protecting consumers and farmers but also a necessary step towards ensuring food security and good governance.​

 

[Saif]

Bina-5 sesame a new hope for farmers

BINA-5 sesame variety has raised hope among farmers in the district and elsewhere in the country, as the crop grows aplenty and makes huge profit in a short duration. According to sources at the BINA Magura sub-centre, BINA-5 sesame is high yielding compared to common variety. The production of BI

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Bina-5 sesame a new hope for farmers

OUR CORRESPONDENT
Published :
Jun 26, 2025 09:37
Updated :
Jun 26, 2025 09:37

BINA-5 sesame variety has raised hope among farmers in the district and elsewhere in the country, as the crop grows aplenty and makes huge profit in a short duration.

According to sources at the BINA Magura sub-centre, BINA-5 sesame is high yielding compared to common variety. The production of BINA 5 sesame in a short duration is 1.5 tonnes per hectares.

The variety of sesame grows in a short duration. BINA- 5 variety takes only 80 to 85 days from cultivation to harvest while 95 to 100 days in common variety. Sesame is highly vulnerable to water logging.

But BINA-5 sesame is temporary waterlogging tolerant. Moreover, this variety is less vulnerable to insect attack compared to common variety. The market price of BINA-5 variety is higher compared to common variety.

Shankar Sarkar, a farmer of village Shibrampur under Magura Sadar upazila, told the FE, "I have harvested my BINA 5 sesame. I have achieve about 15 maunds per bigha while other farmers who have cultivated local variety have achieved only 9 to 10 maunds. Moreover, my production cost was lower than that of them."

Another farmer, Ashim Biswas of village Shibrampur under Magura Sadar upazila, said this year most of the sesame lands in our village faced waterlogging for 3 to 4 days. Water logging has destroyed most of the lands.

"But my land did not face damage due to water logging as I cultivated BINA 5 variety. Moreover I have got higher price from my sea sum compared to other farmers who cultivated common variety."​

 

[Saif]

Most farmland far below optimal productivity

Bangladesh leaves 56 per cent of agricultural land below productivity trajectory while only 1.2 per cent catches up desired level of production with the highest output, although the country meets food deficit with imports. An official survey shows such stark paradox in farmland productivity and fo

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

LAND-SCANT BANGLADESH LEAVES AGRO-POTENTIAL UNDERUTILISED
Most farmland far below optimal productivity

FE REPORT
Published :
Jul 01, 2025 00:02
Updated :
Jul 01, 2025 00:02

Bangladesh leaves 56 per cent of agricultural land below productivity trajectory while only 1.2 per cent catches up desired level of production with the highest output, although the country meets food deficit with imports.

An official survey shows such stark paradox in farmland productivity and food insecurity in many agro-households across the country.

The country's 44.37 per cent of farmlands are at the desired and acceptable level of productivity while 55.63 per cent are still under unsustainable level in terms of their annual output value per hectare, the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) survey divulges.

The report on its findings, published Monday, further shows the agricultural lands in the urban areas are on the highest level of un-productivity, accounting for 65.48 per cent, compared to the rural areas (54.78 per cent).

Meanwhile, the wage structures among the agricultural workers "are still in a shambles as 39.88 per cent of them don't get paid even at the level of country standard", the BBS report reads.

The nation's statistical agency conducted the 'Productive and Sustainable Agriculture Survey 2025' with samples taken from 15,600 agricultural households and 722 farms across the country.

The BBS survey unveils that the lands in Rajshahi, Rangpur, Khulna and Mymensingh divisions are "in a better position in productivity and risk-mitigation factors" compared to the rest of the divisions across Bangladesh.

In the above-mentioned category, the sustainability rates in Rajshahi, Rangpur, Khulna and Mymensingh divisions are 78.96 per cent, 85.55 per cent, 69.54 per cent and 70.95 per cent respectively-higher than the national average of 69.16 per cent.

According to the survey, Bangladesh's farmers are very much bent on utilising pesticides and fertilisers.

It shows 43.05-percent farmers still use fertilisers without maintaining proper guideline while 48.63 per cent use pesticides in more than a desired level.

The farmers in Mymensingh division use the highest level of fertilisers at 64.05 per cent while Rangpur runs high on pesticide usages at a 63.78-percent rate.

On the other hand, the farmers in Rajshahi and Chittagong divisions use the lowest doses of pesticides at 35.82 per cent and 35.18 per cent.

The rate of fertiliser use is lower in Rangpur and Sylhet divisions (32.79 per cent and 30.53 per cent).

According to the findings, 28.95 per cent of farmers are still not maintaining agro-biodiversity-supportive practices as they produce only one crop in the same land every year.

"A total of 18.34 per cent of agricultural lands still do not get water supply properly as the country's irrigation system still fails to cover them," says the report.

In terms of soil degradation, 27.25 per cent of the agricultural households belong to those lands where more than 50-percent agricultural soils are degrading annually.

On the food-security scale, the BBS shows an overwhelming 81.11 per cent of agro-households have mild food insecurity, 17.72-percent HHs have "acceptable food insecurity" and 1.17-percent HHs are in severe food insecurity.

The country had to import 4.93 million metric tonnes of food-grains under public and private sectors in the financial year 2022-23 to feed the people who do not have enough.

The report-launching ceremony was addressed by Statistics and Informatics Division Secretary Aleya Akter, its Additional Secretary Masud Rana Chowdhury, Agriculture Ministry Additional Secretary Mahbubul Haque Patwary and BBS Project Director Md Rafiqul Islam. BBS Director- General Mizanur Rahman chaired the function.​

 

[Saif]

Introducing innovative farming practices

The country's agriculture has come a long way off, thanks to some remarkable research and experiments with cereals and other crops. But still farm practices in general are yet to be smart enough to turn farmlands economically sustainable. A survey titled "Productive and Sustainable Agriculture Surv

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Introducing innovative farming practices

Published :
Jul 02, 2025 22:35
Updated :
Jul 02, 2025 22:35

The country's agriculture has come a long way off, thanks to some remarkable research and experiments with cereals and other crops. But still farm practices in general are yet to be smart enough to turn farmlands economically sustainable. A survey titled "Productive and Sustainable Agriculture Survey 2025" carried out by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) corroborates this lapse in farming. The study finds that only 1.2 per cent of agricultural land in the country yields the optimal level of output, 44.37 per cent has acceptable or adequate level of productivity and the major portion of land comprising 55.63 per cent has production far below the sustainable level. Still more worrying is the fact that the problem of land degradation occurring at the rate of 50 per cent is encountered by as high as 27.25 per cent agricultural households. The prospect is not only bleak for those families because of this high rate of land degradation, it also unfolds a spectre of fast shrinkage of agricultural land and its attendant ills of displacement of a large number of people and their food insecurity.

Admittedly, the country is not under an immediate threat of falling short of the required land areas for production of enough foods to feed its people. Both the 44.37 per cent and the 55.63 per cent of lands now yielding acceptable and below par level of crops respectively can be improved to a large extent for augmenting production. Even with the existing research results and technological innovation achieved by agricultural scientists of the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI) and the Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU) along with other such universities and institutes can bring about a change for the better. There has been a kind of inertia on the part of policy formulators in implementing the laboratory knowledge and findings at the field level. However, a new breed of educated young people has come forward to adopt the latest models of agriculture. Although they are a few in number, these new generation of farmers is changing the agricultural map of the country.

How they are doing it? It is quite simple. Bio-diversity-supported agricultural practices they have opted for simply to provide the boost agriculture here needs. Apps-driven irrigation, fertiliser and pesticide use--- with drone replacing manual practice and monitoring crops' health--- have already brought about a paradigm shift in the country's agriculture. The knowledge and technology are there but reaching those to farmers at the field level is what proves highly challenging. But such smart ways of farming economise on irrigation and inputs such as improved seeds including salinity and heat-tolerant varieties, fertiliser and pesticides by determining their correct amounts.

So, to take agriculture to the next level, the latest innovative practices of farming has to be made familiar to even unlettered farmers. Sure enough, there is a need for big investment if a farmer wants to adopt the latest agricultural practices. It is exactly at this point the policymakers have to think out of the box. How to bring small agricultural plot holders under the coverage of smart practice? If farmers' cooperatives are formed and the government provides the machines, tools and devices for payment of prices in instalments, the initiatives will certainly take off. Alongside this, there is a need for directing research focus on stalling extensive land degradation.​

 

[Saif]

Eco-friendly storage units helping farmers preserve potatoes

This season, marginal farmers in eight districts of Rangpur division have stored a total of 6,775 tonnes of potatoes in 394 non-refrigerated model storage units established with support from the Department of Agricultural Marketing under the Ministry of Agriculture..These locally built sto

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Eco-friendly storage units helping farmers preserve potatoes

Photo: S Dilip Roy

This season, marginal farmers in eight districts of Rangpur division have stored a total of 6,775 tonnes of potatoes in 394 non-refrigerated model storage units established with support from the Department of Agricultural Marketing under the Ministry of Agriculture.

These locally built storage units, constructed using indigenous technology, are being hailed by northern farmers as a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to cold storages. Each unit cost Tk 1,76,000 to construct and can store up to 30 tonnes of potatoes. These are electricity-free, eco-friendly, and durable.

According to the Department of Agricultural Marketing, the district-wise storage data is as follows: 2,702 tonnes stored in Rangpur's 121 houses, 1,408 tonnes in Dinajpur's 75 houses, 1,032 tonnes in Lalmonirhat's 37 houses, 637 tonnes in Thakurgaon's 47 houses, 341 tonnes in Panchagarh's 38 houses, 327 tonnes in Kurigram's 24 houses, 193 tonnes in Nilphamari's 36 houses, and 115 tonnes in Gaibandha's 16 houses.

Meanwhile, the Department of Agricultural Extension reported that 2,25,985 hectares of land in the division yielded 58.68 lakh tonnes of potatoes this year. Of this, 11.09 lakh tonnes have been stored in 116 cold storages.

Abdul Khalek, 60, a farmer from Komolabari village in Lalmonirhat's Aditmari upazila, said, "Ten of us small farmers together stored 27 tonnes of potatoes in one of these model houses. We plan to sell when market prices go up. This facility was provided to us free of cost by the Department of Agricultural Marketing."

Nazrul Islam, 56, of Bishbari village shared, "The house has bamboo shelves inside. We stored our potatoes without using any sacks. I harvested a small quantity and couldn't secure space in a cold storage. This model house saved the day."

The Department of Agricultural Marketing said each house is expected to last 15 to 20 years, with only minor maintenance needed every three to four years, which farmers can manage collectively by raising small funds.

NM Alamgir Badsha, deputy director of the Rangpur divisional office of the Department of Agricultural Marketing, said, "Since most marginal farmers can't afford cold storages, these model houses allow them to preserve their produce and sell later at fair prices. It's proving to be a highly successful initiative. We plan to expand this further in the future."​

 

[Saif]

How AI can forecast rice market shocks in Bangladesh

Ai can be used to anticipate and manage rice price surge better.

www.thedailystar.net

How AI can forecast rice market shocks in Bangladesh

Bangladesh should pilot AI forecasting systems in key rice-surplus districts such as Naogaon, Bogura, and Jessore. FILE PHOTO: MOSTAFA SABUJ

Rice accounts for about 60 percent of daily caloric intake in Bangladesh and occupies approximately 76 percent of the total cropped land. Despite consistently producing around 39 million metric tonnes of rice annually, the country's rice markets remain vulnerable to sudden price surges. These disruptions are often driven not by production shortfalls but by supply chain bottlenecks or environmental stresses.

For example, in August 2023, coarse rice prices surged by 13 percent in just one month, even though production remained stable and Aman harvest output surpassed the previous year's by 500,000 tonnes. These shocks disproportionately affect poorer households, where even a Tk 2 per kg rise significantly impacts food budgets.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers a powerful tool for anticipating and managing these shocks. Ensemble learning models such as gradient boosting, CatBoost, and XGBoost have demonstrated exceptional performance in forecasting rice yields in Bangladesh, with R-square values nearing 0.99 (the higher the R-square, the better a model fits the data). In contrast, rice price forecasting is more complex. Models like Vector Autoregression (VAR), used in markets such as Malaysia, show R-square values between 0.60 and 0.80, reflecting moderate explanatory power. Time series approaches such as ARIMA, applied to Bangladeshi data, have shown promise in predicting yields but limited applicability to price dynamics.

AI systems that integrate environmental variables—rainfall, temperature, and wind speed—can help forecast potential price disruptions. Satellite-based AI pilots in Southeast Asia have successfully detected crop stress up to two weeks before visible signs appear, allowing for earlier intervention. Similar systems in Bangladesh could prompt timely responses, such as adjusting public procurement or releasing food reserves, before prices escalate uncontrollably. This proactive approach can play a crucial role in stabilising the rice market, particularly during climate- or logistics-related uncertainties.

However, the successful implementation of AI in agriculture faces structural challenges. Wetland areas such as haor and char lack reliable internet connectivity, hindering real-time data collection. According to a report by The Daily Star, only 37.8 percent of rural residents in Bangladesh use internet, compared to 68.4 percent in urban areas. This stark rural-urban digital divide significantly limits AI adoption.

Price data at the district level is often collected manually or inconsistently, which reduces model training accuracy. In Bangladesh, and more broadly across South Asia and Africa, tech-driven agriculture is hindered by limited digital literacy, inadequate technical training, and poor data-quality awareness among farmers and officials. This shortage is recognised as a "key barrier" to the effective use of AI: officials cannot interpret models, lack trust in forecasts, and therefore underutilise them. Addressing these foundational issues is essential for any AI-driven solution to have a real impact.

To move forward, Bangladesh should pilot AI forecasting systems in key rice-surplus districts such as Naogaon, Bogura, and Jessore—regions where rice dominates local GDP. Extension offices could be equipped with tablets and dashboards to access real-time AI alerts. At the national level, a unified digital rice price database with real-time feeds from wholesale markets would vastly enhance model accuracy. Equipping local officials and traders with the knowledge to act on such signals would enable them to incorporate AI insights into market-level decisions.

By combining machine learning with real-time data and institutional readiness, AI can help the country move from reactive crisis management to forward-looking food policy. Rice in every table, every household stands to benefit when markets are predictable, prices are fair, and intelligent systems guide national food security.

Ellin Ahmed is a finance major at the Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) department of North South University.​

 

[Saif]

Crops on 78,000 hectares of land under water

Heavy rains have inundated vast stretches of farmland across 21 districts in Barishal, Khulna, Chattogram and Dhaka divisions, leaving thousands of farmers devastated as crops and fish enclosures were washed away over the past week.

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Crops on 78,000 hectares of land under water
Torrential rains devastate coastal farmlands

Heavy rains have inundated vast stretches of farmland across 21 districts in Barishal, Khulna, Chattogram and Dhaka divisions, leaving thousands of farmers devastated as crops and fish enclosures were washed away over the past week.

According to the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), weeklong torrential rains initially submerged 1.36 lakh hectares of cropland, including Aush paddy, Aman seedbeds, and seasonal vegetables, as of July 8.

I cultivated Aus paddy on three acres of land with a loan from the bank. I also prepared 30kg of paddy seedbeds there. All of it has been submerged— Abdus Shahid A farmer from Feni.

The affected area decreased to 78,173 hectares by yesterday evening.

Md Jamal Uddin, additional director of monitoring and implementation at the DAE's field service wing, said temporary waterlogging has occurred in the 21 districts due to very heavy rainfall across the country.

He said crops including Aush paddy, Aman seedbeds, bona Aman, jute, vegetables, fruit orchards, betel leaf, watermelon, and others have been submerged.

The affected districts include Cumilla, Chandpur, Brahmanbaria, Chattogram, Cox's Bazar, Noakhali, Feni, Lakshmipur, Khagrachari, Pabna, Khulna, Bagerhat, Satkhira, Narail, Barishal, Pirojpur, Jhalokathi, Patuakhali, Barguna, Bhola, and Shariatpur.

With the reduction in rainfall, water levels are gradually receding, and the submerged areas are declining, Jamal said. A final assessment of the damage to the crops will be possible once the water fully drains in the coming days.

Among the affected areas are 44,662 hectares of Aush, 14,393 hectares of transplanted Aman, 135 hectares of jute, 9,673 hectares of vegetables, 114 hectares of bananas, 293 hectares of papaya, 387 hectares of betel leaf, 297 hectares of broadcast Aman, 104 hectares of chilli, and 281 hectares of summer watermelons.

Many fish enclosures, especially in Noakhali and Khulna, have also been washed away, said local fish farmers and officials.

The Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre (FFWC) said an active monsoon and a low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal are causing heavy rainfall in the coastal regions, which is expected to continue for another three to five days -- deepening farmers' worries. The downpour has already pushed up vegetable prices in local markets.

"I cultivated Aush paddy on three acres of land with a bank loan. I also prepared 30kg of paddy seedbeds there. All of it has been submerged by the rain in the last few days," said Abdus Shahid, a farmer from Fazilpur village in Sadar upazila. "I had hoped to harvest this paddy, keep some for my family, and sell the rest to repay the loan. But the rain has washed away all my dreams. I am now helpless."

Abul Kashem of Mukimpur village said his one and a half acres of Aush paddy, 100 sacks of ginger, a papaya orchard, and 30 decimals of Aman seedbeds are under four to five feet of water.

At New Market, Natun Bazar, Puran Bazar, and Kalatala Bazar in Patuakhali town yesterday, prices of most vegetables increased by Tk 10-20 per kg compared to last week. Green chilli prices more than doubled from Tk 120-150 per kg last week to Tk 320-350.

Green papaya was being sold at Tk 30 per kg, bottle gourd Tk 60–70, coriander leaves Tk 200, sweet pumpkin Tk 30, brinjal Tk 90-100, cucumber Tk 30-35, carrots Tk 100-150, bitter gourd Tk 60-65, and snake gourd Tk 35-40.

Saiful Islam, a vegetable seller in Pirojpur town, said, "You'll have to pay Tk 50–70 for any variety of vegetable. Supplies from Bagerhat and Khulna have dropped, pushing prices up."

In the same area, fish farmer Mannan Sheikh said, "There is too much water in the canals. The sluice gate in Orjakhali is closed, and the embankment built at Badhal Bazar for dredging the Bishkhali river has worsened the flooding."

Rampal upazila in Bagerhat district has also been hit hard. "I had fries in my seven-bigha enclosure. The sudden rise in water washed everything away. Recovering from this loss will be extremely difficult," said shrimp farmer Abu Huraira from Chakshree village.

Harunur Rashid, another shrimp farmer, said, "The embankments of all the ponds have broken due to incessant rain. I've lost over Tk 5 lakh. I can't afford to buy fries and start again."

Md Badiuzzaman, Khulna district fisheries officer, said the full extent of damage is still being assessed. However, several shrimp enclosures in Paikgachha upazila have been flooded. According to farmers, fish worth nearly Tk 4 crore have been lost.

Asked about livestock damages, officials from the Department of Livestock Services (DLS) said so far, 16 unions across eight districts -- Barishal, Bhola, Pirojpur, Jhalakathi, Patuakhali, Barguna, Feni, and Lakshmipur -- have reported damage to around 4,900 cows and buffaloes, and 992 goats and sheep.

Md Abu Sufiun, DLS director general, said approximately 25,342 poultry farms have also been significantly affected. "About 30,000 ducks, chickens, and cows have already been vaccinated," he added. The total estimated livestock loss stands at Tk 98 crore so far, though it is still a preliminary figure.

The FFWC bulletin noted that the water levels of the Muhuri and Selonia rivers in Feni are now flowing below the danger level. Meanwhile, the water of the Teesta, Dharla, Surma, Kushiyara, Ganges-Padma, and Brahmaputra-Jamuna are rising but still below the danger mark.

The forecast warns of further moderate to heavy rain in the next three to five days, which could worsen the flood situation.​

 

[Saif]

Precision farming can raise yields by 25%

Bangladesh can boost crop yields by at least 25 percent through the adoption of modern technology in a cultivation method known as “precision agriculture”, according to a Dutch environmental and soil scientist.

www.thedailystar.net

Precision farming can raise yields by 25%
Dutch scientist says in interview

Bangladesh can boost crop yields by at least 25 percent through the adoption of modern technology in a cultivation method known as "precision agriculture", according to a Dutch environmental and soil scientist.


Precision agriculture, also known as precision farming or smart farming, is a modern approach to agriculture that uses data, technology, and targeted management to optimise crop production and reduce waste.

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During an interview with The Daily Star recently, Prof Jetse Stoorvogel of the Department of Environmental Sciences at Open University in the Netherlands, explained that the approach involves collecting information about variables in crop fields, such as soil conditions, weather patterns, and crop health, and using this data to make informed decisions about resource applications and management.

The country is in a unique position where agricultural production continues to rise—unlike in many countries where growth has plateaued or declined, said the professor.


To sustain and optimise this progress, precision agriculture is essential in a country like Bangladesh, he added.

According to him, Bangladesh's current crop yields, especially in rice, are at just 50 percent of their potential.

"You're often producing 4 tonnes to 5 tonnes per hectare, whereas 10 tonnes could be possible," he pointed out.


Precision agriculture can help close that gap, he added.

If a field has low yield in one section, precision agriculture may help identify whether it needs more fertiliser, said Stoorvogel, who had visited Dhaka in the middle of July.

This approach allows farmers to use resources more efficiently, reduce costs, improve yields, and minimise environmental harm, he added.

It is particularly important for countries like Bangladesh, where food security is a challenge, the population is growing, and agriculture must become more resilient to climate change and market fluctuations, he said.

The scientist said Bangladesh has made some progress, particularly in developing seeds and adopting technological innovations, and that is the starting point of precision agriculture.

While the rest of the world has moved further ahead, Bangladesh still appears to be in the early stages of adopting precision methods, he added.

He said 25 years ago, a soil test cost $200. Today, handheld sensors go for around $100, and subscription-based advisory services on mobiles now make it possible to deliver real-time, customised advice to even the smallest farms, he said.

These tools, along with increasing access to machinery like combine harvesters and mobile-based advisory services, can make precision agriculture accessible to smallholders over time, he said.

In countries like Kenya and India, smallholders are already benefiting from such tools, and the same can happen in Bangladesh, with its growing access to smartphones and mechanisation bridging the knowledge and technology gap.

Another key issue is fertiliser overuse—many Bangladeshi farmers apply more than 300 kilogrammes per hectare, even when yields do not justify it, he said.

Based on soil conditions and crop performance, many farmers could safely reduce fertiliser use by 10 percent to 25 percent, cutting costs and improving environmental outcomes, he added.

He also said pesticides and herbicides must be applied at the right time, and that is where data and decision-support tools become invaluable.

Stoorvogel said a major concern in Bangladesh is the dominance of smallholder farmers, who often lack the resources to invest in advanced technologies.

In Bangladesh, a large portion of land is rented. Without ownership, farmers may be less inclined to invest in long-term soil health, he said.

He also said climate change is a big challenge for local farmers.

He emphasised addressing these issues step by step.

Private companies in Bangladesh could play a role in this transition by bundling advice, inputs, and even soil testing services, as has been done successfully in Uganda, Kenya, and Vietnam, he added.

They must coordinate across departments—seed, fertiliser, crop protection, and machinery—to offer integrated solutions, he said.

The potential is real, but success will depend on customised solutions, cooperation, and gradual, well-informed implementation.

Ultimately, government policies must support a strong ecosystem involving extension officers, farmers, researchers, and private companies. None can succeed alone, he added.​

 

[Saif]

Early rains spur Aman cultivation in Chapainawabganj

Farmers across the north-western district of Chapainawabganj, also renowned for its mango production, are passing busy days with Aman paddy cultivation, as timely monsoon rains have signalled the start of the season. From transplanting seedlings to preparing fields and repairing bunds, agricultura

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Early rains spur Aman cultivation in Chapainawabganj

UNB
Published :
Jul 24, 2025 12:15
Updated :
Jul 24, 2025 12:15

Farmers across the north-western district of Chapainawabganj, also renowned for its mango production, are passing busy days with Aman paddy cultivation, as timely monsoon rains have signalled the start of the season.

From transplanting seedlings to preparing fields and repairing bunds, agricultural lands across the district are abuzz with activities.

Shah Lal Ali, a farmer from Baliyadanga village in Sadar upazila, said he is cultivating Aman paddy on 12 bighas of land and plans to plant on another six bighas soon.

“The rains arrived early this year, which has been good for farming. The initial abundance of rainwater meant there was no need for irrigation in the beginning, helping reduce costs. If the rainfall continues like this, irrigation expenses will largely reduce,” he said.

Akbar Ali, a farmer from Atahar area, echoed the sentiment. “Aman paddy must be planted during the rainy season. I’ve seen my forefathers rely solely on rainwater for this crop. In years without rain, we’ve had to depend on deep tube wells for irrigation. But this year, timely rains have allowed all the farmers to begin cultivation,” he said.

Akbar said he has already planted paddy on eight bighas of land and plans to cultivate another two bighas once the standing rainwater recedes from a low-lying field. “The market price of paddy is good right now, which has encouraged more people to grow rice this season,” Akbar added.

Meanwhile, Jahangir Hossain, another farmer in the area, expressed concern over rising costs. “The price of ploughing and labour has gone up. On top of that, we have to feed the workers and even provide cigarettes,” he said with frustration.

Calling farming the only way to survive, Jahangir said he has planted paddy on five and a half bighas so far and has another six bighas to go.

In Nezampur of Nachol upazila, farmer Serajul is also preparing his land for cultivation. “Timely rain has helped us a lot. I plan to cultivate three bighas this year. If we continue to get periodic rainfall, it will be a good season,” he said.

According to the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), the target for Aman paddy cultivation in the district this year has been set at 54,415 hectares.

This includes 10,695 hectares in Sadar, 22,400 in Nachol, 15,670 in Gomastapur, 5,050 in Bholahat, and 600 hectares in Shibganj upazila.

Agricultural officials and farmers expect that 193,144 metric tonnes of paddy will be produced from the cultivated land, helping meet local demand for rice.

Dr Yasin Ali, Deputy Director of the DAE, said farmers are planting both Ufshi (high-yielding) and hybrid varieties of Aman paddy.

“There is no shortage of fertilisers or seeds, and we are providing full technical support to the farmers,” he said, expressing optimism that the district will exceed its cultivation target this year.​

 

[Saif]

Small farmers, big water choices

FOR millions of smallholder families, water remains a daily negotiation between hope and hardship. Whether tending boro rice on the dry soil of the Barind or collecting water for home use in flood-prone villages, such farmers balance survival against scarcity. Their water use reflects the...

www.newagebd.net

Small farmers, big water choices
Makhan Lal Dutta 27 July, 2025, 00:00

Barind Multilateral Development Authority

FOR millions of smallholder families, water remains a daily negotiation between hope and hardship. Whether tending boro rice on the dry soil of the Barind or collecting water for home use in flood-prone villages, such farmers balance survival against scarcity. Their water use reflects the resilience of rural Bangladesh and exposes systemic inefficiencies and an urgent need for smarter, equitable management.

During the dry-season boro harvest, groundwater remains the backbone of irrigation. Nearly 80 per cent of irrigation water comes from shallow and deep tube wells run with diesel and electric pumps. This reliance on groundwater comes at high cost. A USAID-funded analysis has found that Bangladesh’s boro production boom, from 18 million tonnes in 1991 to 33.8 million tonnes in 2013, has been driven by diesel pumps consuming 4.6 billion litres annually, costing $4 billion along with $1.4 billion in subsidies. Smallholders are trapped in this cycle, paying heavily to secure water while risking groundwater depletion.

Nowhere is this dilemma clearer than in the Barind region, where more than 90 per cent of rural households depend on groundwater for agriculture, leading to rapidly falling water tables. In Nilphamari, a small farmer had to delay his wife’s medical treatment to pay a water lord Tk 180 for an hour of irrigation. Such market-driven arrangements expose power imbalances as pump owners shift costs and risks onto the already vulnerable families.

Traditional irrigation practices further intensify inefficiencies. Most fields remain continuously flooded, wasting up to 30 per cent of water through evaporation and percolation. Alternate wetting and drying, which irrigates fields only when needed based on soil moisture, has shown promises. Trials in Bangladesh have demonstrated a 30–38 per cent reduction in pumping-related electric use without yield losses. Yet, without reforms to ensure that cost savings benefit farmers, inequities persist as pump owners accrue the benefits while smallholders continue to pay high water prices.

Surface water could be a cheap alternative where canal systems exist, but now, only around 20–25 per cent of irrigated land uses river or canal water. Large irrigation projects such as the Muhuri scheme have demonstrated gains by rehabilitating canals, installing pipelines and using prepaid meters, expanding service areas and increasing yields. Yet, smallholders often remain on the margins as private pumps and minor schemes dominate the rural water economy.

The complexity of water use extends into households, where drinking, cooking and hygiene water often come from the same sources used for irrigation. With arsenic contamination affecting nearly a half of shallow tube wells and microbial risks widespread, families are acutely aware of water safety. Promising interventions such as pond sand filtres and rainwater harvesting often face maintenance issues and women-headed households frequently bear the burden of fetching safe water.

This highlights a critical nexus: farm water decisions directly impact domestic water security. Programmes under multiple-use water supply models, which integrate irrigation, drinking and livestock water for clusters of households, offer an efficient pathway. These systems, at around $200 per household, can pay for themselves through income gains from horticulture and livestock but remain rare in Bangladesh.

Climate pressures are forcing a rethink. Solar-powered irrigation systems are expanding in remote areas, providing off-grid pumping without fuel costs. However, if not managed carefully, they risk accelerating groundwater depletion. In the Barind, proposals for increasing block tariffs, charging progressively higher rates for water use, have shown potential to reduce groundwater use while generating management funds. Coupling increasing block tariffs with canal expansion and alternate wetting and drying practices can align incentives for conservation while supporting productivity.

Institutional reform is central to this transition. Water user associations, often dominated by pump owners, need restructuring to represent actual users, including women and tenant farmers. Linking water use associations with training in alternative wetting and drying, water budgeting and governance, alongside integrating tariffs and pipeline grants, will foster equity and efficiency in local water management.

The private sector is emerging as a critical partner. Microfinance institutions are offering loans for efficient pumps, moisture sensors and drip irrigation systems, particularly for small horticulture and vegetable plots that deliver higher income per litre of water than rice. Research shows that water returns in high-value crops can be 5–10 times greater than in paddy fields. However, challenges in awareness, market connectivity and infrastructure must be addressed to fully realise these benefits.

Technological innovations offer hope. Internet of Things-enabled pumps, moisture sensors and remote sensing for monitoring aquifer health and drone-assisted irrigation planning are on the horizon. Yet, their successful adoption will require public-private partnerships, cost-sharing models and community training to ensure smallholder farmers can benefit.

Bangladesh is at a pivotal moment in its irrigation journey. An estimated 3 per cent of the nation’s electricity is consumed by farm pumps, with smallholders bearing the brunt of energy costs. Smarter water use, linking surface water systems, groundwater controls, efficient pumping technologies and integrated domestic supply, can unlock significant productivity gains while enhancing rural resilience.

Every drop saved in the field represents safer water at home. Every taka invested in efficient pumping yields healthier families, increased food security and better livelihood. It is time for policy to view irrigation not only as an agricultural necessity but as a communal resource central to rural livelihoods and health.

Smallholder farmers, who account for more than 85 per cent of Bangladesh’s farms, are key to this transformation. Empowering them with equitable water access, information and technologies can turn water management from a burden into an opportunity for resilience and economic growth. Lessons from Pakistan and India on groundwater tariffs and canal rehabilitation can guide Bangladesh’s efforts while scaling up alternate wetting and drying, multiple-use water supply pilots, prepaid metering and rainwater harvesting can ensure water sustainability.

Water is no longer merely a natural resource. It is an economic asset, central to the survival and advancement of rural Bangladesh. By balancing agricultural needs with household water security, Bangladesh can build a more resilient, equitable and water-secure future for its smallholder farmers.

Dr Makhan Lal Dutta, an agricultural engineer, is chair and chief executive officer of Harvesting Knowledge Consultancy.​

 

[Saif]

How precision agriculture can transform Bangladesh

This method uses advanced technologies to enhance crop production while minimising waste and environmental impact.

www.thedailystar.net

How precision agriculture can transform Bangladesh

File photo: Palash Khan

Agriculture plays a pivotal role in Bangladesh's economy, employing approximately 35.27 percent of the workforce and contributing about 11.55 percent to the national GDP. Traditional farming methods, however, are becoming less sustainable due to their excessive reliance on synthetic fertilisers and excessive water use. Currently, Bangladesh imports 80 percent of the 6.9 million tons of fertiliser consumed annually. Furthermore, about 90% of the country's groundwater is used for agriculture. As a result, many parts of the country, especially the northwest and southwest such as Rajshahi, Naogoan, Natore, Dinajpur, and Jashore districts, often suffer from water scarcity.

Precision agriculture (PA) offers a promising solution to this acute problem. PA uses advanced technologies to enhance crop production while minimising waste and environmental impact. Tools like sensors, satellites, drones, and GPS-enabled machinery help farmers monitor their fields more efficiently. Soil sensors measure moisture levels, enabling precise irrigation and reducing water usage by 30-40 percent. Drones and satellites capture crop images to detect issues like diseases, pests, and nutrient deficiencies. GPS and sensor data highlight variations in the field, allowing farmers to adjust fertiliser application, which reduces waste and reliance on imports.

Additionally, soil health sensors track pH, nutrients, and organic matter to guide soil improvement. By gathering real-time data on soil moisture, pH, temperature, and electrical conductivity, PA helps determine plant water stress and nutrient requirements and allows farmers to make informed decisions. This data is analysed using software and AI to optimise irrigation, fertilisation, and pesticide use. PA also enables the automation of these processes, making it easier to apply the right resources at the right time, thus lowering the labour costs. Ultimately, PA improves resource efficiency, increases productivity, and reduces environmental impact.

Traditional rice farming using flooded irrigation method creates an anaerobic soil condition that emits methane, a greenhouse gas 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide. The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) estimates rice farming accounts for 21 percent of Bangladesh's total greenhouse gas emissions. However, the negative impact doesn't end there. The environmental impact is exacerbated by the extensive use of diesel-powered irrigation pumps. Large amounts of carbon dioxide and harmful particles are released by these pumps, worsening rural areas' air quality and contributing to climate change. These unsustainable farming practices also pose serious health risks. The constant flooding of rice fields can create breeding grounds for mosquitoes, increasing the spread of diseases such as dengue and malaria. Additionally, methane emission also increases the per capita carbon footprint of our country.

The alternative wetting and drying (AWD), a modern irrigation method introduced by IRRI and the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI), has already gained recognition as a sustainable water management practice in Bangladesh. Building on this foundation, we can more effectively integrate PA technologies to enhance efficiency and sustainability in rice farming. A combination of these two methods can take water management to the next level. By reducing water usage by 30-40 percent and optimising fertiliser management by 20-30 percent through PA, methane emissions can be significantly lowered. Furthermore, climate change mitigation can be supported, and rice yields can be increased by 10-20 percent. Additionally, soil moisture sensors can accurately determine irrigation needs, minimise over-irrigation and lead to savings in diesel. AWD can be implemented more effectively, ensuring fields are flooded only when necessary, thus conserving water and reducing methane emissions.

Studies conducted in countries such as the US, India, and the Netherlands have demonstrated that PA can minimise chemical runoff and cut water use by 20-40 percent, safeguarding the environment and yields.

To achieve this, pilot projects should be implemented to directly apply PA in real-world settings. These projects can include training programmes for farmers and demonstration farms to showcase the benefits of these technologies. Farmers can gain hands-on experience in precision agriculture from government agricultural offices at the upazila level.

Startups such as Aunkur, iFarmer, and Drip Irrigation BD Ltd are already leading the way in precision farming by providing Internet of Things (IoT) sensor-based services to farmers. These startups are helping to bridge the technology gap and can serve as valuable partners in scaling up PA across the country.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Bangladesh Agriculture Development Corporation, BRRI, and other agricultural bodies can come together to form strategic partnerships, creating incentives and support systems to ensure the widespread adoption of PA. By promoting collaboration between government, industry, and farmers, Bangladesh can adopt precision farming to build a more resilient, sustainable, and productive agricultural future.

Precision agriculture is essential for Bangladesh to enhance food security, reduce costs, and address climate change challenges. By investing in technology, training, and policy reforms, Bangladesh can transform its agriculture into a model of efficiency and sustainability.

Dr Sultan Ahmed is associate director at Bangladesh Institute of Governance and Management (BIGM). He can be reached at sultan.ahmed@bigm.edu.bd.

Afsana Akter is research associate at Bangladesh Institute of Governance and Management (BIGM).​

 

[Saif]

Smart water, secure food

IN A sunlit classroom at Bangladesh Agricultural University, final-year students gather around a miniature canal model, tracing the path of water as it flows towards a simulated paddy field. It may seem like a simple academic exercise, but for these young engineers-in-training, it symbolises a...

www.newagebd.net

ENGINEERING REVOLUTION
Smart water, secure food
Makhan Lal Dutta 31 July, 2025, 00:00

IN A sunlit classroom at Bangladesh Agricultural University, final-year students gather around a miniature canal model, tracing the path of water as it flows towards a simulated paddy field. It may seem like a simple academic exercise, but for these young engineers-in-training, it symbolises a quiet revolution. This is where Bangladesh’s future is being engineered — one drop of water, one line of code and one solar pump at a time.

Agricultural and water resources engineering education in Bangladesh has long operated in the background of mainstream development narratives. Yet, it lies at the intersection of two urgent national challenges: feeding over 170 million people and managing fragile, climate-threatened water systems. As Bangladesh faces rising climate risks, rapid urbanisation and shifting agricultural patterns, the demand for skilled, innovative and grounded engineers in this field is more critical than ever.

Agriculture continues to employ over 37 per cent of Bangladesh’s labour force and contributes more than 12 per cent to the GDP. Water is inseparable from this sector in a nation defined by its deltaic geography, 700 rivers and volatile weather cycles. Agricultural and water resources engineers play a vital role in designing irrigation systems, managing drainage, building flood control structures and developing water harvesting technologies that help farmers adapt to floods, droughts and salinity intrusion. Their importance was sharply evident during the 2020–2021 flood-drought cycles, when localised interventions helped rescue crops and protect livelihoods across northern Bangladesh.

Bangladesh’s engineering education sector has begun to respond strategically to this rising demand. Bangladesh Agricultural University pioneered this transformation in 1962 by establishing the Department of Irrigation and Water Management, now the Department of Agricultural and Water Resources Engineering. Its graduates now lead in research, infrastructure development and community engagement. Other institutions — including BUET, KUET, RUET, and newer universities like Sylhet Agricultural University and Patuakhali Science and Technology University — have integrated agricultural water engineering into their academic offerings, expanding regional access and enriching the talent pipeline.

University Grants Commission data show that enrolment in these programmes has increased by over 35 per cent in the past decade. Students and parents alike are recognising the value of a discipline that offers both career stability and the opportunity to solve real-world problems. But quality, not just quantity, determines impact. The strength of these programmes lies in their ability to equip students with both foundational engineering skills and the adaptability to confront evolving environmental and agricultural realities.

Today’s curricula are no longer confined to traditional hydraulics or irrigation. Programmes have evolved to include climate-resilient agriculture, geographic information systems, remote sensing, precision farming and solar-powered irrigation. Students also engage in hands-on training through internships, lab work and field projects with agencies like the Bangladesh Water Development Board, Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation, and research bodies such as BRRI and IRRI. This integration of theory and practice ensures that graduates are not just degree-holders, but solution-providers.

However, challenges persist. A 2023 Bangladesh Academy of Sciences review found that while technical capacity is improving, many institutions face shortages of modern lab facilities, simulation tools and practical exposure to large-scale water system management. Faculty development, industry collaboration and research investment must catch up with the sector’s growing importance to national development.

Graduates are increasingly in demand across public agencies, NGOs and donor-funded projects. The Department of Agricultural Extension, BWDB, and local government offices are deploying engineers to implement climate-resilient water solutions at the grassroots. Global partners — such as the World Bank, IFAD, FAO and JICA — are funding climate adaptation and irrigation initiatives, particularly in high-risk districts like Satkhira, Khulna and Rangpur. The private sector, too, is taking notice, especially in areas like solar irrigation, drip and sprinkler technologies and water-efficient agricultural machinery.

Technology is rapidly transforming this profession. Projects like IDCOL and SREDA’s solar irrigation pilots, along with community-based rainwater harvesting initiatives, are offering new career frontiers at the intersection of engineering, sustainability and rural development. IoT-based monitoring systems, real-time data analytics and automated irrigation scheduling are opening new research domains for graduates with both hardware and digital skills.

A quiet but notable change is also taking place in gender participation. While engineering has traditionally been male-dominated, BANBEIS data show that female enrolment in agricultural engineering rose from 8 per cent in 2010 to nearly 19 per cent in 2023. Many of these young women are contributing fresh perspectives on inclusive water solutions, especially for women farmers who form nearly half the agricultural labour force but often face limited access to irrigation and water infrastructure.

National development strategies now reflect this emerging importance. The Bangladesh Delta Plan 2100 and Perspective Plan 2041 prioritise water security and efficient water use. Delivering on these visions requires a pipeline of highly trained engineers who understand both the science and the social fabric of rural Bangladesh. In response, educational institutions are investing in updated syllabi, faculty training and research support to align with national goals and global best practices.

At the centre of this transformation is the unyielding passion of students. Whether it is a student in Barishal building a low-cost solar pump or a young academic in Mymensingh pioneering AI-based irrigation scheduling, the ingenuity and commitment on display reflect a deeper mission. These emerging professionals are redefining what engineering means in the 21st century — not just building bridges and towers, but creating lifelines for climate resilience, food security and inclusive development.

As Bangladesh marches towards its upper-middle-income aspiration, the role of agricultural and water resources engineers will only grow in significance. Their expertise will help determine how the country manages its land and water, secures rural livelihoods and adapts to climate extremes. More than just professionals, they are stewards of sustainability.

In a country where the rivers shape the land and the land feeds the people, these engineers are responding to a quiet but urgent call. And in the classrooms, labs and muddy fields where they train and test their ideas, they are sowing the seeds of a future where food and water security are not dreams, but engineered realities.

Dr Makhan Lal Dutta, an Agricultural Engineer, is chairman and CEO of Harvesting Knowledge Consultancy.​

 

[Saif]

In the absence of a pro-farmer policy

Farmers in this country could not be more discriminated against. Growers of major crops appear to be only more so. This year potato farmers have produced a record high of 13 million tonnes of potato---4.0 million tonnes in excess of the country's demand. Only 70,000 tonnes have so far been exported

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

In the absence of a pro-farmer policy

Nilratan Halder
Published :
Aug 02, 2025 00:19
Updated :
Aug 02, 2025 00:19

Farmers in this country could not be more discriminated against. Growers of major crops appear to be only more so. This year potato farmers have produced a record high of 13 million tonnes of potato---4.0 million tonnes in excess of the country's demand. Only 70,000 tonnes have so far been exported. The price never picked up, although at the start of the new harvest even in the country's growing north, the price of potato was Tk 70-80 a kilo. From then on the price has steadily slumped. Now farmers are counting losses between Tk 10-12 a kilogram of potato because production costs varied between Tk14-17 and with the addition of cold storage rent, the total cost for preservation of a kilogram of potato comes to about Tk25. But at the moment, the going price at cold storage gate is Tk 12-13 a kilogram.

This has raised the ominous spectre of farmers' unwillingness to take release of a huge quantity of potato from cold storages. Taking out the stock from cold storages and then bearing the costs of transportation will further increase the margin of loss. Similar things happened years ago when potatoes were left to rot or used as cattle feed. Frustration of potato growers this year may surpass the extent of that time. Fearing the reaction from potato farmers, the Bangladesh Cold Storage Association (BCSA) has sent a letter to the ministry of commerce (MoC) urging it to fix at least Tk25 a kilogram at the cold storage gate. The association has, moreover, suggested an alternative way of pragmatic disposal of potato. With the rice given to 5.5 million vulnerable families in the country at Tk 15 a kilogram, 10 kilogram of potato can as well be given to those families at a subsidised rate.

Its benefit will be manifold. First, the vulnerable people will get potatoes at a cheaper rate and will have their nutritious supplement all the same. Again, potato growers will at least be spared the outrageous losses they are now incurring. Apart from this immediate measure, the MoC should look for market abroad in order to export as much potato as possible. There are still three more months when this crop, a staple in some parts on this planet, will pass a lean season before the new harvest can be expected in November. If the opportunity can be exploited, the domestic potato glut can be overcome to a large extent.

Strangely, government intervention is fast and furious if any such appeal comes from the corporate world or the monopolistic trading houses. For example the Bangladesh Rice Industries Association (BRIA), a group of top auto rice millers, sent a letter to the MoC pleading for rescinding the directive issued by the Directorate of National Consumers' Rights Protection (DNCRP) on the sale of rice under fictitious names---in fact given the name of 'miniket' and 'jeerashail'. This is a kind of ultra-polished rice made from BRRI Dhan 28 and 29. In fact, BRRI Dhan 29 has lower yield and it is mostly the BRRI Dhan 28 that is used for the purpose. In no time, the MoC obliged. But in case of the appeal to save potato farmers, no prompt action is visible even though the plight of these growers has long been highlighted by the media and agriculture experts. The apprehension is not misplaced that farmers will lose interest in cultivation of potato and next year, the price of the item may hit rooftop as it did last year.

In case of rice, the BRIA has used the intimidation tactics threatening not to purchase 5.0 million tonnes of paddy from farmers to be processed as the finer variety of rice. If it is not purchased, farmers will count losses as that amount of rice will rot in the process. Wonder of wonders, the BRIA has at no point made it clear that it does not polish BRRI Dhan 28 to give it the name 'miniket". The DNCRP acted on an ethical and legal issue in order to prevent auto rice millers from resorting to the malpractice with the staple and abuse of the legal provision. By cutting it to size, the MoC has dealt a heavy blow to the institutional status such government agencies should have.

The problem here is the government attitude. If the earlier regime's constraints owed to graft and commission money, this government's week-kneed responses to issues of vital importance have mostly gone against the voiceless, farmers, workers and the marginalised finding themselves increasingly at the receiving end. Now the question is, will the farmers whose cause the BRIA has advanced as an excuse for allowing them to continue marketing 'miniket' and 'jeerashail' receive any benefit from the move? They are hardly likely to. The difference between the price of BRRI Dhan 28 and that of so-called 'miniket' or 'jeerashail' is no less than Tk20, if not more.

Had there been a pro-farmer and pro-people government, it would never have given in to the irrational and illegal demand from the corporate world. A government has to be smart to outdo machinations of the business syndicates. If it procured enough paddy and rice and had built sufficient warehouses and cold storages for rice and potatoes, the excess production would not be a cause for concern but an asset for the national economy.​

 

[Saif]

SAARC calls for a united push towards regenerative agriculture

UNB
Published :
Aug 06, 2025 22:55
Updated :
Aug 06, 2025 22:55

Speakers at the regional consultation meeting of the SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) highlighted that regenerative agriculture is a transformative pathway to reverse decades of environmental damage, rejuvenate soil ecosystems, and restore harmony between agriculture and nature.

The consultation aimed to address growing environmental challenges in agriculture by focusing on key issues such as restoring degraded soils, enhancing biodiversity, and building climate-resilient food systems to ensure long-term food security in South Asia.

The SAC has concluded a three-day virtual Regional Consultation Meeting, from August 4 to 6, on "Promotion of Regenerative Agriculture in SAARC Member States." The event brought together delegates from six SAARC countries, agricultural research bodies, universities, and international agencies to develop a collaborative strategy for promoting regenerative agriculture across the region.

Urgency and Collaboration Emphasised

Ambassador Abdul Motaleb Sarker, additional foreign secretary (SAARC and BIMSTEC) of Bangladesh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, served as the chief guest for the opening session. He stressed the urgent need to restore soil health and biodiversity and urged the SAC to lead a regional movement for agricultural transformation, integrating digital tools and practical strategies.

Md. Harunur Rashid, director of the SAARC Agriculture Centre, chaired the session. He highlighted that regenerative agriculture is a "transformative pathway to reverse decades of environmental damage, rejuvenate soil ecosystems, and restore harmony between agriculture and nature." He emphasised that these practices are crucial for long-term food security, improving farmer livelihoods, and strengthening regional agri-food systems.

Tanvir Ahmad Torophder, Director (ARD & SDF) of the SAARC Secretariat, Nepal, attended as a Special Guest. He pointed out the economic benefits of regenerative agriculture, stating, "This approach not only improves soil and environmental health but also delivers financial returns to farmers."

He called for a collaborative framework involving governments, scientists, and the private sector to scale up these practices.

Expert Presentations and Recommendations

Over the three days, six technical sessions featured more than 20 expert presentations. Focal point scientists and national specialists from SAARC member states presented country-specific papers, highlighting common regional challenges like rising temperatures, soil degradation, water scarcity, and financial constraints faced by farmers.

The experts advocated for knowledge sharing, farmer training, and the creation of large-scale extension programs tailored to the region's specific needs. Many speakers called for strong government support and greater cooperation among SAARC countries to facilitate the widespread adoption of regenerative practices, according to a press release.​

 

[Saif]

Distributing farm credit efficiently

Though the agriculture sector contributes around 12 per cent of the country's gross domestic product (GDP), it is a misleading indicator to assess the importance of the sector. For instance, around 45 per cent of the nation's workforce is directly involved in the sector, which underscores the impac

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Distributing farm credit efficiently

FE
Published :
Aug 13, 2025 22:40
Updated :
Aug 13, 2025 22:40

Though the agriculture sector contributes around 12 per cent of the country's gross domestic product (GDP), it is a misleading indicator to assess the importance of the sector. For instance, around 45 per cent of the nation's workforce is directly involved in the sector, which underscores the impact of agriculture on the job market and the economy. Again, ensuring food security remains highly dependent on substantial farm output. Against the backdrop, the latest push by the central bank to enhance disbursement of farm credit from commercial banks is a move in the right direction.

On Tuesday, Bangladesh Bank formally unveiled the Agricultural and Rural Credit Policies and Programmes for the current fiscal year (FY26), setting a target of Tk 390 billion for agricultural and rural credit distribution. The new target is 2.63 per cent more than last fiscal year's (FY25) target of Tk 380 billion, when the actual amount of disbursed loans stood at 373.26 billion. Central bank statistics also showed that the farm loan disbursement fell below the target after three years of overshooting the annual targets. So, it is a matter of concern, especially when the agro-based rural economy needs sufficient support to help boost economic activities. The latest farm credit policy emphasised easing the loan application procedures, disbursing credit through agent banking activities, and using the MFI/NGO linkage by banks that do not have adequate number of branches or sub-branches in rural areas.

The central bank governor has rightly pointed out that farm and rural credit is still a low priority area for the commercial banks in the country, as less than 3 per cent of total bank financing goes to agriculture. In this connection, two specialised banks (BKB and RAKUB) and six state-owned commercial banks (SCBs) play a critical role in disbursing farm credit. These eight banks disburse around 36 per cent of the total credit, whereas the share of 42 private commercial banks (PCBs) is 62 per cent. So, there is a scope to increase the share of PCBs to boost farm credit.

At present, 60 per cent of the total farm credit goes to the crop sub-sector, followed by 15 per cent to livestock and 13 per cent to fisheries. To meet the growing demand for staple food, such as rice, along with vegetables and fruits for nutrition, and cattle and fish for animal proteins, efficient farm production is necessary. Without having climate-resilient seeds and advanced technologies, it is challenging to enhance the farm output, especially when farm land is slowly vanishing in the country and putting food security under threat. Though import from the international market is a key source to meet the country's food demand, there is no alternative to enhance the local output. Moreover, the agriculture sector is now more diversified than before, and many young entrepreneurs in agriculture sector are emerging with small-scale operations. They need bank financing to move ahead with their farm projects. Farm-centric cottage, small and medium enterprises (CSMEs) are also growing in different parts of the country, reflecting the diversification. All these require easy and efficient financing, and PCBs can also tap into these opportunities.

Finally, as also mentioned by the governor, refinancing for farm credit is not the responsibility of the central bank alone, and the government should also to come up with the budget support. This will help increase the volume of farm credit.​

 

[Saif]

How biochar can boost fertiliser efficiency

As Bangladesh's population grows and the demand for food rises, efficient fertiliser use has become more critical than ever to safeguard food security. Farmers in the country rely heavily on chemical fertilisers and pesticides, a long-standing practice that has caused soil degradation, biodiversity

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

How biochar can boost fertiliser efficiency

Atiqul Kabir Tuhin
Published :
Aug 17, 2025 00:33
Updated :
Aug 17, 2025 00:33

As Bangladesh's population grows and the demand for food rises, efficient fertiliser use has become more critical than ever to safeguard food security. Farmers in the country rely heavily on chemical fertilisers and pesticides, a long-standing practice that has caused soil degradation, biodiversity loss, water pollution and contamination of the food chain. Researchers warn that overuse of fertiliser has become a pressing concern, reducing fertiliser efficiency, lowering farm profitability, and contributing to environmental damage, including greenhouse gas emissions.

Professor Shahla Hosseini-Bai of Griffith University, Australia, in collaboration with researchers in Bangladesh, is leading a project to understand farming practices in rice systems and identify sustainable strategies to improve fertiliser efficiency and increase yields. Sharing the research team's recent findings, she said many farmers apply extra fertiliser, believing it will boost yields. However, the study revealed that over-fertilisation not only failed to increase yields but also led to unnecessary expenses and environmental harm. Under-fertilisation, though less common, was also observed due to farmers' financial constraints.

To address these challenges, researchers are exploring innovative technologies to improve fertiliser efficiency. One promising approach, according to Professor Hosseini-Bai, is the use of biochar - a charcoal-like substance produced from agricultural residues and waste through pyrolysis, a process that involves heating in the absence of oxygen. Often referred to as "black gold" for soil, biochar offers a multitude of benefits, including enhancing soil health and fertility, promoting sustainable waste management and mitigating climate change.

Explaining its effects, Professor Hosseini-Bai said, "Biochar enhances soil's ability to retain nutrients and water, reducing the need for excessive fertiliser and irrigation. Its water-retention capacity is particularly valuable during drought. Because it is highly stable, biochar can remain in the soil for centuries, significantly increasing carbon storage."

Biochar also acts as a carbon sink by locking CO2 underground for hundreds of years. Its porous structure functions like a sponge, retaining moisture, micro-organisms, and essential nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus, as well as gases like carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide. Considering these benefits, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) recognised biochar as a potential tool for climate change mitigation.

Despite its potential, biochar adoption remains limited by cost and accessibility. Professor Hosseini-Bai has developed both liquid and solid biochar-based fertilisers that are nutrient-efficient, reduce dependence on conventional inputs, and are effective across a wide range of crops. She notes that wider adoption is hampered by limited commercial production - an obstacle that could be addressed by introducing low-cost kilns into formal markets.

Her research also shows that combining biochar or other organic matter with fertilisers can substantially improve yields. Biochar's properties vary according to the feedstock and production method, allowing it to be tailored to specific soil conditions. Smallholder farmers can design their own kilns and produce biochar on-site. Farmers can also compost or mulch organic farm and household waste such as rice husks, straw, fruit scraps, or manure, and apply it alongside fertilisers for similar benefits. Even simple techniques, such as burying organic matter, igniting it, and covering it to limit oxygen, can make biochar production feasible in resource-scarce settings. However, organic matters like manure and straw are often used as fuel or livestock feed, which may limit their availability for soil improvement.

Unlocking biochar's full potential will require concerted action by government, researchers, and farmers. Public investment in production facilities, training programmes, and farmer support can accelerate adoption. At the same time, academic and research institutions can play a pivotal role in this regard by sharing knowledge, making research findings widely available, and establishing demonstration sites to showcase biochar's effectiveness in real farming conditions.​

 

[Saif]

Potato output hits historic high, raises concerns of surplus

Bangladesh produced 1.15 crore tonnes of potatoes, the highest in history, in the last harvesting season, raising fears that a good portion of the tuber is likely to remain surplus this year as demand is far below the output, according to estimates by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS).

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Potato output hits historic high, raises concerns of surplus

Bangladesh produced 1.15 crore tonnes of potatoes, the highest in history, in the last harvesting season, raising fears that a good portion of the tuber is likely to remain surplus this year as demand is far below the output, according to estimates by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS).

An expansion of cultivation area and a higher yields owing to favourable weather boosted the overall production of the popular vegetable this year, said the BBS, releasing its estimate early this month.

Farmers grew the tuber on land of 4.92 lakh hectares in the fiscal year 2024-25, up 8 percent year-on-year. Overall production increased 9 percent year on year from 1.06 crore tonnes the previous year, it added.

"We are going to see a surplus this year," said Matiar Rahman, director of Tuber Crop Research Centre (TRC) .

Including around 10 lakh tonnes of potatoes used for seeds, the country requires just over 90 lakh tonnes of potatoes for domestic consumption, according to estimates by the TRC and the Bangladesh Cold Storage Association (BCSA).

With roughly 80 lakh tonnes being consumed, a portion of the vegetable is used by processors to make chips and crackers. Apart from this, just over 62,000 tonnes of potatoes were exported in the fiscal year 2024-25.

"It appears that many people will not show interest in buying potatoes at the end of the year, causing losses for farmers," he said.

Transplanted from mid-September to November, the main harvesting season starts in mid-January and continues until March every year. However, early varieties of the vegetable start coming to the market from December, and demand for old potatoes declines amid an increased arrival of winter vegetables.

Stakeholders said potatoes harvested in the January-March period will be consumed in the three and a half months of this year.

Mostofa Azad Chowdhury Babu, president of the BCSA, said cold storages have 29 lakh tonnes of potatoes now as only 4 lakh tonnes have been released so far.

"Now, there are no potatoes at the farmers' end," he said.

"As we have only three and a half months of the season, a good amount is likely to remain surplus," he said, adding that the price of the vegetable remains much lower than the overall cost.

Potatoes are selling at Tk 14 - Tk 15 per kilogramme (kg) whereas production and other costs are Tk 25 - Tk 27, he added.

At retail, the vegetable is selling at Tk 25 - Tk 30 per kg in Dhaka, which is 48 percent lower than the same period a year ago, according to the Trading Corporation of Bangladesh.

"The amount of export is not significant," he said.

To increase consumption, the BCSA earlier urged the government to include 10 kilogrammes of potatoes per household in the social safety net schemes, including the Food-Friendly Programme.

He said mostly farmers' stored potatoes in the cold storages and if the government takes the initiative to distribute potatoes under social safety net programmes, farmers will be saved from losses.

"We have not seen any decision from the government," he said.​