The farmers of Chapainawabganj are gearing up for a bumper boro rice harvest this year, aiming to produce 253,780 metric tonnes of the staple crop. This is a result of the high demand created by the plentiful yield of the last season.

The Ministry of Agriculture Extension (DAE) has devised an ambitious plan to cultivate boro rice on 52,200 hectares of land, distributed across different regions of the district. Farmers like Kawsar Ali are busy preparing their fields and sowing boro seeds. Ali, who has dedicated eight large plots of land for rice farming, noted the rising costs of farming, due to higher labor and irrigation expenses. Similarly, Mayez Uddin pointed out the hike in land preparation costs from Tk 300 to Tk 350, along with increased wages for workers. Paddy workers, who brave the cold weather during winter to plant boro rice, such as Madan, stressed that the current wage of Tk 500 for planting helps them cover their family expenses despite the hard work.

Dr. Palash Sarkar, Deputy Chief of DAE, expressed optimism about the prospects of this year. He mentioned the widespread adoption of the Ufsi boro variety, ensuring adequate availability of seeds and fertilizers. He also added that the irrigation process has been smooth due to reliable electricity supply, and farmers have been given all necessary guidance from agricultural officials. Given these favorable conditions, Dr. Sarkar expects that the target for boro rice production will not only be met but exceeded, indicating a prosperous and fruitful season for the farmers of Chapainawabganj.