In Sharankhola upazila of Bagerhat, golden paddy fields are swaying under the dreams of farmers. The air is filled with the sweet fragrance of newly grown rice, signaling a super bumper harvest. Farmers are eagerly waiting for the hours to cut and thresh the rice, their faces reflecting joy and satisfaction.
The Department of Agriculture’s support, including the expansion of modern rice varieties, improved irrigation systems, and cultivation of short-duration and salt-tolerant crops, combined with favorable weather, has significantly boosted production this year.
Abul Hasan, Deputy Assistant Agriculture Officer of the upazila, said that this year about 70,000 bighas of land were cultivated with Aman rice. The varieties include high-yield BINA 7 and 17, BR 11, 22, 23, and BRI 39, 49, 71, 75, 87, 93, 103, along with local varieties such as Dutkolom, Sada, Mota, and Lal. To encourage farmers, 35 exhibitions were organized, and around 550 farmers received seeds and fertilizers for varieties 87, 75, 93, and 103 as government incentives.
Nirab Haldar, a model farmer from South Tafalbaria village, shared that he cultivated 20 bighas of land this year, expecting 33–35 mon per bigha. He added, “We will start harvesting in 2–3 days. Last year, I cultivated 49 variety on 2 bighas and harvested 67 mon. This year, the yield is even higher thanks to guidance from the agriculture department.”
Other farmers such as Sultan Howlader from North Kadamtala, Ayub Ali Khan from Jhilbunia, and Asadul from Bakultala also reported bumper harvests in their areas. The striking view of golden paddy fields is evident in parts of Khontakata, Southkhali, Dhansagar, and Rayenda unions.
Debbrat Goswami, Upazila Agriculture Officer, told reporters that this year’s super bumper harvest is the result of comprehensive support, training, and guidance provided to farmers. With the provision of seeds and fertilizers as government incentives, farmers have become more skilled and efficient in rice cultivation. Additionally, the introduction of new varieties, improved irrigation, cultivation of short-duration and salt-tolerant crops, timely application of fertilizers and pesticides, and favorable weather conditions have collectively contributed to the remarkable yield.
With the Rabi season’s double-cropping area increasing, rice harvesting formally began on Thursday with sample crop cutting. Compared to previous years, the yield has significantly surpassed expectations, promising a prosperous season for the farmers of Sharankhola.
