[🇧🇩] Agriculture in Bangladesh

[Saif]

Potato growers in distress for cold storage shortage

A severe shortage of cold storage facilities has left potato growers in the northern districts struggling to manage a space for their produce, with the price of the cash crop dropping to Tk 10 a kilogram on the local wholesale markets on Friday.

www.newagebd.net

Potato growers in distress for cold storage shortage
Suzon Ali . Rajshahi 21 March, 2025, 22:05

File Photo

A severe shortage of cold storage facilities has left potato growers in the northern districts struggling to manage a space for their produce, with the price of the cash crop dropping to Tk 10 a kilogram on the local wholesale markets on Friday.

Farmers feared that a spell of rain on Thursday and Friday worsened the situation as it would cause the potatoes to rot in fields if not collected and sold or stored immediately.

The Rajshahi Meteorological Office recorded 5.4 millimetres of rain in the past 24 hours ending at 2pm on Friday.

According to the Department of Agricultural Extension, farmers had cultivated potatoes on approximately 50,000 hectares more than the estimated area this season in the sixteen districts of Rajshahi and Rangpur divisions as the potato prices were favourable in the past season.

Agriculture officials estimated that about 103 lakh tonnes of potatoes would be produced in the Rajshahi and Rangpur divisions this season compared with 106 lakh tonnes produced nationwide in 2023-24.

Although the potato acreage and production have increased significantly, the number of cold storages remains the same, leaving potato growers struggling for a space to store their crops.

According to DAE officials, there are 221 cold storages in Rajshahi and Rangpur divisions in which about 22 lakh tonnes of agricultural produce can be stored.

This year the fare for preserving one kilogram of potatoes in the cold storage has increased to Tk 6.75 from Tk 4 in the past year.

Potato growers said that now they neither could sell their produce from their fields due to a lack of buyers nor could store them due to a lack of enough cold storages.

Sikander Ali, a farmer from Nandigram in Bogura, told New Age that he had harvested potatoes on three bighas of land this season and the yield was good.

‘After harvesting the potatoes, I have kept the crop at the back of my house as there is hardly any buyer to buy the harvest,’ he said, adding that the small-scale growers like him were not given priority over the large-scale growers and traders in providing storage facilities.

Sikander said that since he had no other option, he would sell the potatoes even at huge losses.

Rahidul Alam, a farmer from Tanore in Rajshahi, told New Age that after failing to manage a place for storing potatoes, he wanted to keep the potatoes unharvested in his field for several more days.

‘But I had to harvest the potatoes on Thursday hurriedly due to rain. All the crops will be rotten if not collected immediately,’ he added.

Another farmer, Masud Rana, said that he booked a space in a local cold storage in advance for storing his potatoes, but the cold storage owner had recently informed him that no storage space was left in his facilities.

Masud feared that the rain spell would cause the prices of potatoes to go down further in the coming days.

Long queues of vehicles carrying potatoes were seen in front of several cold storages at Tanore and Paba upazilas in Rajshahi on Thursday and Friday, as the farmers who booked spaces earlier rushed the storages for keeping their produce.

Monjur Rahman, a farmer from Tanore, who cultivated potatoes on 100 bighas of land, told New Age that it had become a struggle for them to store their produce in the cold storages as it took time to weigh potatoes and put those in the storages.

‘I booked spaces in a cold storage for my potatoes several months back. I am hopeful of storing all of my produce,’ he said, adding that the costs for transporting potatoes to the storage facilities from the fields doubled as the vehicles carrying the crop had to stand for hours in queues before entering the storage.

Many farmers alleged that they had to return with their loaded vehicles back home after authorities declared their storage facilities were full.

Dulal Hossain, a farmer from Raipur village in Bogura Sadar upazila, said that even after waiting for hours at the cold storage gate, he was unable to store his sacks of potatoes in the facilities.

‘The cold storage authorities have announced that they can no longer accept potatoes as they have reached full capacity,’ he added.

Abu Bakkar, president of the Rajshahi Cold Owners’ Association, told New Age that his cold storage was full one month earlier. ‘Potato growers will incur huge losses this season due to a price fall of the crop and a lack of adequate cold storages,’ he said.

Azizur Rahman, additional director of the Rajshahi divisional DAE office, told New Age that they were aware of the farmers’ plight.

‘We have already contacted the ministries concerned and urged them to set up more cold storage facilitates in the region,’ he added.​

 

[Saif]

CIB report mandatory for agricultural loans: Bangladesh Bank

From now on, the CIB (Credit Information Bureau) report will have to be verified to approve any amount of agricultural loan or extend the loan tenure. Earlier, a CIB report was not required for agricultural and rural loans up to Tk 2.5 lakh, UNB reports. On Sunday (Mar 23), the Agricultural

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

CIB report mandatory for agricultural loans: Bangladesh Bank
FE ONLINE DESK
Published :
Mar 23, 2025 21:42
Updated :
Mar 23, 2025 21:42

From now on, the CIB (Credit Information Bureau) report will have to be verified to approve any amount of agricultural loan or extend the loan tenure.

Earlier, a CIB report was not required for agricultural and rural loans up to Tk 2.5 lakh, UNB reports.

On Sunday (Mar 23), the Agricultural Credit Department of Bangladesh Bank issued a directive in this regard.

According to the directive, if a loan is disbursed without verifying the CIB report, the bank will not be able to know even if the customer takes multiple crop and crop loans of a maximum amount of 2.5 lakh taka from different banks.

In this situation, the risk of defaulted loans increasing is created. Currently, collecting CIB reports has been made much easier than before. Banks are able to quickly collect the CIB report of the loan applicant using the CIB server of Bangladesh Bank.

The directive states that from now on, CIB reports will have to be verified for sanctioning any new loan or renewing existing loans in all sectors covered by agricultural and rural credit (excluding MFI linkage).

Other directives of the agricultural and rural credit policy and program for the fiscal year 2024-2025 will remain unchanged. The directive states that this directive will come into effect immediately.​

 

[Saif]

How women are revolutionising our agriculture

Women are an indispensable part of our agricultural workforce.

www.thedailystar.net

How women are revolutionising our agriculture

The ‘feminisation of agriculture’ is a growing phenomenon, as increasing numbers of women assume leadership roles in the sector. FILE PHOTO: REUTERS

In Bangladesh's economy, agriculture plays a vital role in providing livelihoods for around 45.33 percent of the total labour force and contributing 11.38 percent to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Women are an indispensable part of the agricultural workforce. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), women's agricultural work spans not only production but also post-harvest activities, such as processing, packaging, and marketing. These activities are essential in ensuring food security and promoting economic sustainability in rural communities. They are also associated with safe food production. However, despite their significant contributions, women's roles in agriculture are often underappreciated and undervalued, with numerous challenges, such as limited access to land, financial services, training, and modern technology, primarily due to entrenched social norms and gender biases.

According to the Labour Force Survey (LFS) 2022 of the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS), the participation of women aged 15 and above in agriculture is 26.2 percent, while the rate for their male counterparts is 19.2 percent.

The country's highest employment-creating sector is gradually becoming dominated by females, with their engagement in agriculture and every agricultural subsector, including poultry and livestock, fisheries, and horticulture. The transformation that has been occurring for over a decade has already had a positive impact on the overall participation of women in the labour force in farming, while men are switching to urban services. The migration of men to urban areas in search of higher-paying jobs, as traditional farming becomes less lucrative, particularly in crop production, has left women to manage agricultural activities to support their families' income.

The "feminisation of agriculture" is a growing phenomenon, as increasing numbers of women assume leadership roles in the sector. This shift can be attributed to several factors, such as livestock rearing, poultry farming, post-harvest operations, and seed preservation. Approximately 63 percent of women in rural areas are involved in preserving local seeds, which ensures biodiversity and sustainability in farming practices.

Women are predominantly responsible for managing cattle, poultry, and goats, which play a critical role in household nutrition and income. They are also essential in managing post-harvest activities, such as winnowing, sorting, primary processing, and storing crops. By managing diverse agricultural activities, women contribute to the availability of nutritious food, improving the health and well-being of their families.

Land ownership is a key determinant of agricultural production, yet women in Bangladesh face substantial challenges when it comes to owning or inheriting land.

According to the World Bank, only around 13 percent of women have sole or joint ownership of agricultural land, compared to 70 percent of men. For economic empowerment, Bangladeshi women need equal property rights. Cultural norms often prioritise male inheritance, and property laws frequently favour men, leaving women with little legal control over the land they work. This lack of control means women are unable to make independent decisions about farming practices, investments, or business opportunities. Furthermore, they are less likely to receive financial support from banks, which require land as collateral for loans.

Women in Bangladesh are also lagging in financial credit. The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) reports that women in rural Bangladesh are 20 percent less likely to access formal credit than men, primarily due to their lack of land ownership and social exclusion from financial institutions. This financial exclusion restricts women's ability to invest in technology or agricultural inputs, thus limiting their productivity and income potential.

Access to modern agricultural inputs and technology is also crucial for enhancing productivity. However, many women in rural Bangladesh are unable to access new technologies due to gender biases, lack of training, and limited mobility. According to a report from the Bangladesh Rural Development Board (BRDB), less than 30 percent of rural women have received agricultural training, compared to over 70 percent of men. Without access to modern farming techniques, women remain stuck in subsistence farming, unable to increase yields or improve efficiency.

To unlock the full potential of women in agriculture and address these challenges, several strategies must be implemented, such as legal reforms to ensure that women have equal access to land and property rights. The government should promote joint land ownership models, where both men and women in a household have legal control over the land. Creating gender-sensitive land registration processes and ensuring that women's names appear on land titles would allow women to secure loans and make independent decisions about farming. The World Bank has suggested that empowering women through secure land tenure could significantly increase agricultural productivity, as women tend to reinvest their earnings into their families and communities.

To enable women farmers to invest in modern agricultural practices, access to credit must be improved. Financial institutions should develop gender-sensitive loan products tailored to the needs of women farmers, with lower collateral requirements and flexible repayment terms. The microcredit programme, which Bangladesh has pioneered, provides some microfinance loans to rural women. Additionally, the Bangladesh Bank should encourage gender-responsive banking practices and create schemes that prioritise women's access to financial resources.

Access to modern agricultural inputs and technology is essential for increasing productivity. Technological innovation plays a significant role in alleviating the labour-intensive nature of agriculture. Several women-friendly technologies have been introduced in Bangladesh to ease the burden of agricultural work. Fodder chopper machines simplify the chopping of grass for cattle feed, saving women valuable time and effort. This is a prime example of women-friendly technology that is making a significant impact on the lives of female farmers in rural Bangladesh. Hermetic Storage Bags provide an efficient and safe method for storing seeds, reducing the risks of pest infestations and moisture-related losses. They have proven to be especially beneficial for women who are responsible for seed preservation. BAU-STR Dryers, developed by Bangladesh Agricultural University, reduce grain loss during the drying process to 0.5 percent, compared to the 3-4 percent loss using traditional methods. The dryers are user-friendly and help maintain the quality of grain.

Paddy, wheat, and maize threshing are mechanised, which is considered women-friendly and affordable. Women's groups may organise themselves as service providers. Small-scale food processing, such as milk-based cheese, sweetmeats, and pickles, may be organised through self-help groups, and relevant micro-enterprise organisations may support them with skill development and business opportunities.

The government and NGOs should subsidise agricultural inputs, such as fertilisers, high-yielding seed varieties, and irrigation equipment for women farmers, including solar panel-based irrigation. Agricultural extension services should be restructured to be more inclusive of women, offering training programmes that cater to their specific needs. Female extension officers can help connect women farmers to resources and provide tailored advice on farming techniques, climate-smart practices, and pest management.

On a positive note, women are increasingly participating in agricultural education, with about 40 percent of women enrolled in universities and training institutes. Thirty percent of women are engaged in agricultural extension, and 12 percent in agricultural research. This may be exploited in women-friendly agricultural programmes to intensify agricultural production and farm profitability. The Department of Agricultural Extension has made it mandatory to include women in forming farmers' clubs and farm schools. The farming system research approach has mainstreamed nutrition and safe food production, and women are participating in the programmes and receiving training on safe and nutritious production.

Education and training are crucial for enhancing women's agricultural productivity. Agricultural training programmes should be designed to address the specific needs of women, offering flexible schedules and locations. In addition to farming skills, women should be trained in business management, marketing, and financial literacy to help them manage their agricultural enterprises effectively.

For sustainable growth in agriculture, women must be included in decision-making processes at all levels. Encouraging women to take leadership roles in agricultural cooperatives and community organisations will ensure their voices are heard in policy and programme development. At the national level, policymakers should work to integrate women's perspectives into agricultural planning, ensuring that policies are designed to address the specific needs of female farmers.

The feminisation of agriculture in Bangladesh and South Asia is transforming the agri-food system. Women's participation has been recognised in all relevant policies. Accordingly, several programmes are being implemented—however, such programmes should be well coordinated. A favourable public policy environment and women-friendly farm operations need to be synchronised with an adequate R&D system. The organised farming and post-production system should be supported in entrepreneurship development. Capacity building of the farming community will be a prime task to make them a more productive segment of society.

Dr Susmita Das is principal documentation officer at Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council.​

 

[Saif]

Making the best use of farm loans

Bangladesh has achieved impressive success in industrialisation over the years with the industry sector's contribution to the gross domestic product (GDP) reaching around 40 per cent. Still Bangladesh is considered an agricultural economy as the sector remains the backbone of rural livelihoods, con

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Making the best use of farm loans
Shiabur Rahman
Published :
Apr 17, 2025 21:45
Updated :
Apr 17, 2025 21:45

Bangladesh has achieved impressive success in industrialisation over the years with the industry sector's contribution to the gross domestic product (GDP) reaching around 40 per cent. Still Bangladesh is considered an agricultural economy as the sector remains the backbone of rural livelihoods, contributing roughly 12 per cent to the GDP. The sector holds the potential of multiplying the contribution, which the country fails to achieve thanks mainly to the lack of attention it needs. Much has been talked about the development of the agriculture sector and significant steps have also been taken, but the country still lags in actions that could transform the sector into a high-contributing one. Here farmers grow crops just for their survival, without knowing their real contribution to the economy, no matter if the government extends any support or not.

Farmers in Bangladesh have limited access to finance, one of the major inputs of production, from banking sources and most of those who can access it have to pay unofficial 'speed money', which adds to cost of borrowing and eats into the borrowed amount. This factor, coupled with a lack of proper supervision, natural calamities and political unrest, often leads to default in repayment. According to a report of The Financial Express, non-performing loans (NPLs) of farmers jumped nearly 42.50 per cent to Tk 61.79 billion during the July-January period of the current fiscal year. This rate is much higher than the overall NPL ratio in the banking sector, which stands at around 17 per cent.

Some examples, however, will make anyone believe that the NPL situation in agriculture credit could have been different had the lenders dealt with the funds a bit differently. Data suggest agriculture loans provided by non-profits and agri-fintechs have much lower NPL ratio, mainly because of the identification of proper loanees, necessary advice to them and close supervision. For example, iFarmer facilitated Tk1.78 billion in loans to around 17,000 farmers from banks and from their own funds and the NPL remains less than 5.0 per cent. This figure represents a small percentage of farmers, but the replication of the model by agriculture lenders might bring in a big change in the agriculture finance landscape in Bangladesh.

Proper monitoring and supervision of farm loans is critically important as in many cases, such loans, especially short-term seasonal ones, are diverted to non-productive uses such as family expenses. This misallocation reduces the capacity of the borrower to repay the loan on time, increasing the NPL burden. However, farm loans, particularly those disbursed through state-owned banks, are often not subject to the same rigorous monitoring as commercial loans or as that offered by non-profits and agri-fintechs. Many rural bank branches are understaffed or lack sufficient capacity for post-disbursement monitoring, leaving a room for misuse of funds or a casual approach to repayment. Conventional lenders should forge greater cooperation with non-profit lending organisations and agri-fintechs in financing agriculture to ensure that their funds are best utilised and make the highest possible contribution to the sector in particular and to the economy in general. Such cooperation could also contribute to curbing informal payment for loans, creating a scope for farmers to invest greater amounts of money in the field they intend to.

Digitisation of agriculture credit disbursement is also necessary to curb NPL in the sector as manual processes always leave room for corruption. The implementation of crop insurance could also help reduce NPL. Crop insurance has been piloted in a few regions, it is yet to be implemented nationwide. Farmers often bear the brunt of losses due to crop failure or livestock disease in the absence of such insurance.​

 

[Saif]

Reforms in agriculture

AGRICULTURE has long been a central pillar of economic and social life in Bangladesh, as it has been across much of the world. Through this sector, food security, public welfare and broader economic progress are nurtured. Yet, the agricultural...

www.newagebd.net

Reforms in agriculture
by Sadia Sultana Rimi 23 April, 2025, 00:00

AGRICULTURE has long been a central pillar of economic and social life in Bangladesh, as it has been across much of the world. Through this sector, food security, public welfare and broader economic progress are nurtured. Yet, the agricultural landscape continues to face critical challenges and turning points. At such junctures, the question invariably arises: is it agricultural reform we need, or reform of the farmers themselves?

As science progresses and technology evolves, modern tools and methods are increasingly integrated into agriculture.

From digital farming to precision irrigation and automated harvesting, the sector is undergoing significant transformation. However, in many areas, farmers remain disengaged from these advances. A lack of access to information about new cultivation techniques, quality seeds, efficient irrigation and fertiliser management means that many still rely on traditional methods — often at the cost of productivity. In places where digital agriculture and smart farming are being introduced, these concepts are still foreign to most farmers. This disconnect compromises their ability to compete, both locally and globally.

Moreover, market mismanagement and flawed economic policies compound these technological gaps. Once a crop is harvested, farmers frequently struggle to secure fair prices due to intermediary exploitation, oversupply and inadequate government pricing interventions. Their incomes remain uncertain, prone to seasonal fluctuation and systemic volatility. Such economic instability erodes farmers’ morale and resilience, underlining the urgent need for thoughtful reform.

Bangladesh’s vulnerability to natural disasters further complicates matters. Floods, droughts, cyclones and other climate-related disruptions interrupt farming cycles, while unpredictable weather patterns, exacerbated by climate change, have rendered traditional agricultural schedules unreliable. In the absence of robust disaster management frameworks or technical support, these factors pose existential risks to both productivity and livelihoods. Reforming the disaster response infrastructure is essential, but just as vital is equipping farmers with modern coping strategies. Many experts argue that a core issue lies in the lack of education and training opportunities for farmers. Devoid of formal instruction in new agricultural methods, financial management, or even basic market analysis, many are left to operate within the limits of outdated practices. This not only inhibits yield but stunts farmers’ self-esteem, initiative, and potential for innovation.

In this context, it is necessary to interrogate the meaning of ‘reform’. Reform in agriculture generally denotes changes in tools, techniques, infrastructure and policy. Reform of farmers, on the other hand, refers to shifts in attitudes, education, behaviour, and socio-economic outlook. While both are necessary, determining which to prioritise requires a nuanced understanding of the root problems.

The adoption of modern agricultural technologies is imperative. Mechanisation, automated irrigation, drone-based monitoring and digital processing can significantly enhance both efficiency and yield. When applied thoughtfully, such tools reduce labour intensity while increasing output. But such transformations must be underpinned by intelligent, farmer-friendly policy. Policymakers must ensure that agricultural policies do more than support productivity—they must provide insurance, financial backing and incentives for technological adoption. Furthermore, effective partnerships between universities, research institutions, and the private sector are essential to cultivate local innovation and research-based solutions.

Digital platforms offer another path forward. Online marketplaces can allow farmers to connect directly with buyers, reducing their dependence on exploitative intermediaries. Access to weather updates, market forecasts and crop advisory through mobile apps or web portals can also improve farmers’ decision-making. To achieve this, government and private IT firms must collaborate within the framework of a digitally empowered Bangladesh.

At the same time, continuous training and educational support are indispensable. Regular seminars on modern cultivation methods, financial literacy, and the use of agricultural technologies can foster both competence and confidence. Training initiatives backed by public-private partnerships will help demystify new techniques and increase openness to innovation.

Still, no technological upgrade or training module can succeed without a shift in mindset. Often, it is traditional thinking — habitual, conservative and risk-averse — that hinders progress. Many farmers are understandably cautious about abandoning familiar methods for unproven ones. Without encouraging a spirit of entrepreneurialism, experimentation and tolerance for failure, technological interventions will remain underutilised. Society and state institutions must help cultivate this cultural shift, empowering farmers to take initiative, make informed risks, and embrace new practices.

This shift must also be economic. Savings behaviour, reinvestment in tools or technologies and post-harvest value addition require a baseline of economic awareness. Farmers must see themselves not as passive labourers but as investors, innovators, and stewards of their livelihoods. Microfinance schemes, low-interest credit and training in financial management are needed to anchor this transformation.

When assessing the relative importance of reform in agriculture versus reform of farmers, it is clear that the two are not mutually exclusive but rather interdependent. Technological advancement can only take root if farmers are receptive to it. Likewise, a reformed outlook among farmers will struggle to yield results without access to enabling technologies and systems. The future lies in harmonising both.

The international market reinforces this necessity. In a globalised economy, countries that fail to modernise their agricultural systems risk being left behind. While developed nations are investing in automation, genetic innovation and climate-resilient farming, countries like Bangladesh cannot afford to remain static. Without the fusion of technical reform and human development, agricultural stagnation could constrain national progress.

Sustainability must also be at the heart of this conversation. Modernisation is not just about increasing output — it is about doing so without compromising environmental or social health. Eco-friendly practices, efficient resource management, and climate-resilient strategies must become central pillars of reform. This calls for intelligent planning and policy reform that balances technological aspiration with environmental responsibility.

Crucially, these efforts must not occur in isolation. Reform is not a task for governments alone. NGOs, private actors, educational institutions and international partners all have a role to play. From facilitating training to enabling research, from funding pilot projects to building digital infrastructure — collaboration will be key.

Progress is already visible in some areas. Government and non-government entities have begun conducting workshops, providing technical support and rolling out digital tools for farmers. Mobile apps now offer weather updates, financial planning assistance and crop advice. Direct-to-market platforms are slowly breaking the hold of intermediaries. These are promising signs, but they remain fragmented, often concentrated in urban or semi-urban areas and dependent on donor cycles.

The full potential of these initiatives is often hindered by persistent low literacy, lack of awareness and resistance to change. Even when the tools are available, many farmers are hesitant to use them due to limited confidence or familiarity. The mindset gap remains a major bottleneck.

To address this, future policy must focus on integration. Technological infrastructure should be rolled out in parallel with community outreach, education and attitudinal change. Programmes aimed at youth in rural areas can be particularly effective, helping bridge generational divides and promoting long-term shifts in perception. The involvement of local role models — farmers who have successfully adopted modern practices — can provide practical inspiration and peer validation.

In the longer term, sustainable agricultural reform must also consider climate resilience. Rising temperatures, shifting seasons and extreme weather events will only become more frequent. Integrating environmental planning into agricultural reform is essential. This includes promoting drought-resistant crops, soil conservation, water-efficient irrigation and alternative energy use.

Digital rural development can also offer a transformative path. By encouraging younger generations to engage with agriculture through technology — apps, YouTube channels, or online training — a cultural rebranding of farming becomes possible. Agriculture need not be synonymous with poverty or backwardness; it can be smart, dynamic and progressive.

Ultimately, the question — ‘reform in agriculture or reform of farmers?’ — is not a binary choice but a deeply intertwined challenge. On one side stands technological progress; on the other, human development. Without the will to change, machines will rust unused. Without the tools to implement, ambition will falter. Only when reforms in agriculture and farmers themselves are approached as a unified agenda will true transformation be possible.

To realise this, all stakeholders — government, NGOs, the private sector and communities — must collaborate in a long-term, coordinated process. Financial incentives, training infrastructure and socio-cultural engagement must operate in tandem. If such an integrated effort is pursued consistently, the result will not just be improved agricultural productivity but a more secure, confident, and respected farming class.

Agricultural reform is not a singular intervention; it is a continuum of vision, investment, and above all, trust in the potential of the farmer. If that trust can be met with opportunity, education, and support, Bangladesh’s farmers will not just feed the nation — they will help lead it forward.

Sadia Sultana Rimi is a student at Jagannath University.​

 

[Saif]

undefined | The Financial Express

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Role of private sector in agricultural market dynamics
Susmita Das
Published :
Apr 23, 2025 23:35
Updated :
Apr 23, 2025 23:35

Bangladesh's agricultural sector has experienced significant transformations over the past few decades in which the public sector played a crucial role. The Green Revolution attained the primary goal of food security. Significant commodities that have succeeded are rice, wheat, potato, jute, fruits, pulses, and oilseeds. International collaboration paved the way for the success of technology and knowledge servicesduring the last two or three decades.

Public sector policy directives have been closely supporting private sector participation in the development initiatives. National Agricultural Policy 2018 stated public-private sector cooperation in research, extension, and marketing for enhancement. The same is reflected in other relevant policies. Reflecting this, many policy-making bodies have involved relevant private representatives in policy-making in agricultural research.

The emergence of the private sector has changed the agricultural production landscape, playing an increasingly important role in the seed industry, particularly in the vast varieties of hybrid vegetables, maize, and rice. This shift has enhanced crop yield and ensured food security for the nation's growing population. The public research and extension system is dependent on inbred seed. Inbred rice proved its worth, occupying 80 per cent of the land, and farm-saved seed is a major crop supply.The phenomenal growth of irrigation in 1988, with the private sector engagement in groundwater irrigation and the withdrawal of the public sector in shallow tubewell, triggered the success of boro rice.

According to the 2012 report Private-Sector Agricultural Research and Innovation in Bangladesh: Overview, Impact, and Policy Options by Harun-Ar-Rashid, Mohafez Ali, and David Gisselquist, there were 51 private companies in total, including two foreign ones. Among these input companies, 13 were involved in seeds, 2 in fertilisers, 6 in pesticides, 4 in machinery, and the remaining in livestock/fisheries.In 2008, the combined number of professional research staff (researchers, research technicians, and administrators) totaled 1,101 individuals, including 19 with PhDs, 74 with MScs, and 242 with BScs. These numbers include women with MScs and 25 with BScs. (Source: Private-Sector Agricultural Research and Innovation in Bangladesh Overview, Impact, and Policy Options Harun-Ar-Rashid, Mohafez Ali, and David Gisselquist June 2012)

Annual turnover in the seed industry of the country was USD 0.85 billion in 2021. BADC, private companies, NGOs, and seed dealers are major stakeholders. The Seed ACT 2018 allows the private sector to release a notified crop variety. It enables the private sector to release a notified crop variety. Quality seed makes up 52 per cent of the total seed supply. (Source: Development and Growth of Seed Industry in Bangladesh, Bangladesh Seed Congress 2023, 11-13 February 2023, BICC, Agargaon, Dhaka)

Historically, Bangladesh's seed supply was predominantly managed by public sector entities such as the Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation (BADC), the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), and the National Agricultural Research System (NARS) Institutes. These organizations are responsible for developing, multiplying, and distributing seeds to farmers nationwide. However, challenges such as capacity and skill, limited resources, and the inability to meet the rising demand for high-quality seeds necessitated the involvement of the private sector.

The liberalisation of the seed market in the late 1990s marked a turning point. It allowed hybrid technology in the country, and private companies took advantage to import, produce, and market seeds. This policy shift catalysed the growth of the private seed sector, leading to increased competition, innovation, and the availability of diverse seed varieties tailored to the needs of Bangladeshi farmers.

The private sector has made remarkable strides in Bangladesh's hybrid seed market. According to recent data, private companies supply approximately 95.68 per cent of hybrid rice seeds, 99.28 per cent of hybrid maize seeds, and 99 per cent of hybrid vegetable seeds. This overwhelming contribution underscores the private sector's capacity to meet the growing demand for high-yielding crop varieties.

Hybrid vegetables and maize occupy the majority of crop land, and several corporations are involved in the business with an organised dealer network. The seed development of hybrids is highly technical and requires skill and land for growing seeds. It is heard that hybrid seed is imported as it is cheaper than locally produced in some crops. Private companies have invested substantially in R&D to develop hybrid varieties that cater to Bangladesh's specific agroclimatic conditions. This focus has led to introducing seeds that are not only high-yielding but also resistant to prevalent pests and diseases.

Agriculture has been a private-led enterprise, where the private sector dominates farmers, service providers, and market operators. However, the public sector plays a regulatory role in research and extension services. The public sector is also involved in marketing rice and wheat, which are staple food items in import and distribution, including the public distribution system to vulnerable groups of society.

Besides seed, the private sector is becoming increasingly active in machinery, pest management, organic fertiliser, and other agrochemicals. A vast network of dealers nationwide is operated with skill and market mechanisms. Dealers at the farmers' doorsteps provide advisory services as well.

Local manufacturers of machines, notably less capital-intensive, are dominated by the private sector. These are threshers, winnowers, potato diggers, sprayers, pumps for irrigation, power tillers, seeders etc. Bangladesh gained skill in producing spare parts, which are exported to neighbouring countries. Bigger capital-intensive machines like combine harvesters are imported mainly by companies, which the owner uses through custom hiring arrangements. This could create good local service providers, thus creating local employment. An attempt is being made to manufacture large machines, though these require regular mechanical services.

There are several agro processors in Bangladesh, such as Pran, Akij, Square, Ahmed, ACI, BD Foods, and Bombay Sweets, with Pran being the largest. According to Bangladesh Agro Processors Association (BAPA), there are around 250 processors; however, the list is not exhaustive as many processors are not members of the association.

There are over 53,000 broiler farms in Bangladesh. Laying hens produce about 1.25 trillion eggs out of a total of 1.5 trillion eggs produced, 80.65 per cent of all eggs commercially produced in the country. From 2019 to 2020, the poultry population (broiler and layer) totaled 356.318 million birds, producing 173.6 billion eggs and 7.674 million metric tons of meat.

The poultry and aquaculture industry is growing, and the private sector plays a major role. Shrimp farming is recognised as the third-ranked industry worldwide. Poultry, dairy, and fisheries feed manufacturing is gaining momentum using local maize production.

Leveraging extensive dealer and retailer networks, private companies ensure timely and widespread distribution of seeds, making them readily accessible to farmers even in remote areas. Many private entities conduct training sessions and workshops to educate farmers on hybrid seeds' benefits and cultivation practices, facilitating better adoption rates and crop management.

While ensuring the quality and authenticity of seeds and other inputs remains a concern, instances of counterfeit or substandard seeds can erode farmer trust and impact yields. Public concern is about unsafe local food items like poultry, fruits, and vegetables grown by using unregulated chemicals and antibioticsused in animals. Besides, rice milling with polishing and misbranding seems to erode trust in the market. Skilled manpower in the regulatory agencies and logistic support should be in place to bring the market into order.

Awareness building through training may be made compulsory for marketing, and timely doses of chemicals may bring better results. The ministry of agriculture established a campaign in good agricultural practice (GAP), which may result in better products. Global "one health approaches" mainstreaming will require coordination of line ministries and departments to regulate private operators engaged in the food system.

Enhanced collaboration between public research institutions and private companies can lead to the development of superior seed varieties, combining academic rigor with market insights.Training programmes for farmers on the benefits of hybrid and inbred seeds and their cultivation practices can facilitate better adoption and agricultural outcomes.

Continued government support in the form of favourable policies, subsidies, and infrastructure development is essential to sustain the growth of the seed sector.The private sector's significant contribution to Bangladesh's hybrid seed industry has been a game-changer, increasing agricultural productivity and food security. However, a balanced approach that leverages the strengths of both private and public sectors is crucial for sustainable growth.

Susmita Das, Ph.D. Principal Documentation Officer, Bangladesh Agricultural

Research Council (BARC)​

 

[Saif]

Imports of farm machinery tumble

Imports of tractors and power tillers have fallen this fiscal year owing to higher prices driven by the depreciation of taka against the US dollar and the discontinuation of government subsidies.

www.thedailystar.net

Imports of farm machinery tumble

Imports of tractors and power tillers have fallen this fiscal year owing to higher prices driven by the depreciation of taka against the US dollar and the discontinuation of government subsidies.

The opening of letters of credit (LCs) for agricultural machinery imports plunged 59 percent year-on-year between July and February of the fiscal year (FY) 2024-25, according to Bangladesh Bank data.

Meanwhile, LC settlements dropped 45 percent year-on-year, reaching $8.3 million in the eight months to the end of February.

"Increased cost of the dollar has pushed up the prices of tractors, and this has affected sales by up to 20 percent," said Sadid Jamil, managing director of Metal, a farming machinery importer.

Sales of combine harvesters have also nosedived since the government scrapped subsidies that had been aimed at speeding up farm mechanisation, cutting reliance on manual labour, reducing production costs, and improving yields.

Previously, farmers received up to 70 percent subsidy on the purchase of combine harvesters. However, this support was withdrawn in the last fiscal year following allegations of irregularities.

Jamil said the situation for power tillers, the most widely used farm machinery for cultivation, mirrors that of tractors.

He said that the subsidy had given a major boost to agricultural mechanisation and urged the government to reinstate it.

He also pointed out that banks remain reluctant to lend to farmers seeking to buy machinery.

According to a report by the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) last year, 98 percent of rice farmers used machinery for tillage and 87 percent for irrigation during 2018-19.

Machinery was also used by 78 percent of farmers for pesticide spraying and by 88 percent for threshing, said the report.

FH Ansarey, president of the agribusiness division at ACI Ltd, said sales of power tillers had shrunk considerably, largely due to the steep rise in prices over the past year.

He said that while the broader macroeconomic environment remains buoyant, the spike in power tiller prices has directly weighed on demand.

Moreover, the operational costs of tractors have fallen below those of power tillers, said Ansarey.

"As a result, many are now shifting towards tractors, which offer better efficiency and cost advantages," he added.

During FY24, Bangladesh's private sector imported power tillers and tractors worth $30 million, which was 8 percent higher year-on-year.​

 

[Saif]

Arial Beel farmers deserve better

Arial Beel, the country's third largest wetland after the Sunderbans and Hakaluki Haor, presents a classic case of misguided policy infringement in natural environment. To kleptrocratic administration, natural resources so integral to maintain bio-diversity, have little value other than a means to

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

Arial Beel farmers deserve better
Published :
Apr 29, 2025 00:06
Updated :
Apr 29, 2025 00:06

Arial Beel, the country's third largest wetland after the Sunderbans and Hakaluki Haor, presents a classic case of misguided policy infringement in natural environment. To kleptrocratic administration, natural resources so integral to maintain bio-diversity, have little value other than a means to serving their myopic interests. Strangely, though, the members of the vested interest group try to pass their exploitative schemes as development projects. Arial Beel with its vast area located in between two rivers, the mighty Padma and the Dhaleshshwari, is not only home to a diverse species of aquatic flora but also a breeding ground of a large number of sweet-water indigenous species of fish. Parts of the swamp even become fit for cultivation of Boro and vegetables with the water receding in the lean season.

It is no surprise that some of the fertile brains of the deposed regime with capacity for incalculable monstrosity targeted the wetland for using it as yet another grand development project. Their target was to build an airport as a major showpiece of development all because this could offer them the opportunity to loot a huge amount of money. Farmers and fishermen who have been the traditional beneficiaries with many of those owning agricultural plots there were not concerned about the intrigues that went into making a choice for the area for construction of an airport. Nor were they so much aware of the environmental disaster an airport would have wreaked on the area and the surrounding villages and human settlements but they simply did not want to lose the wetland. It is because their livelihoods and life largely depended on the resources of the wetland.

Thus the interests of farmers and fishermen of the area and that of the government clashed and in 2011, the repressive administration unleashed its brutality on the unarmed people who organized a massive protest rally in the area. The fascist character was in full display when several hundred villagers were arrested and cases were filed against half the population of the adjacent villages. Mercifully, the casualty was limited to just one death but it could be many more. The wetland was saved by the people who demonstrated tremendous courage and commitment.

Strangely, after almost nine months of incumbency of this interim government, the cases filed at that time are yet to be withdrawn. People who should be treated as heroes are still accused of false charges. The villagers of the area had to bring to the notice of the agriculture and home affairs adviser, who was on a visit there, of the cases filed in 2011 by the previous regime. It is not known if they moved for withdrawal of the cases after the July-August uprising. Now that the cases filed left and right over the past months are under scrutiny, the Arial Beel cases should be the prime candidates for immediate review and most likely withdrawal for understandable reasons. Let the protest movement that thwarted the attempt at anthropogenic infringement serve as a model for frustrating any government misadventure with potential for environmental disaster. It should also be a deterrent to all future development projects posing a serious threat to ecology and topography.​