RANGPUR, Jan 3 (V7N): Farmers in the Rangpur agricultural region are witnessing a promising start to the Rabi season, with tender maize plants growing robustly across the fields. Enthusiastic farmers have already surpassed cultivation targets for this cash crop, which requires less irrigation and yields high profits.

According to the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), the target for maize cultivation this season was set at 1,17,043 hectares to produce 13,28,993 tonnes of maize. However, farmers have already cultivated 1,18,131 hectares, exceeding the target by 0.93%, with sowing continuing until the end of January.

Additional Director of the DAE’s Rangpur region, Agriculturist Md Obaidur Rahman Mondal, highlighted the role of maize in improving farmers' livelihoods and achieving self-reliance. Its growing demand in the poultry, dairy, animal husbandry, and food industries is further incentivizing cultivation.

Agriculturalist Dr. Md Abdul Mazid, a recipient of the Independence Medal-2018, emphasized the potential of utilizing vast char lands along the Teesta, Brahmaputra, Dharla, and other rivers for maize cultivation. These lands are proving crucial in expanding farming, particularly for marginal farmers and landless communities.

Farmers in char areas benefit from support provided by the government and NGOs, including high-yield maize seeds and other inputs. The expansion of maize farming in these areas is helping to:

Reduce poverty.

Enhance food security.

Improve resilience to climate change.

Dr. Mazid also stressed the environmental benefits of maize farming, as it requires less irrigation and helps conserve underground water amid climate challenges. He urged farmers to adopt conservation agriculture technologies to optimize yields, reduce costs, and improve profitability.

Farmers like Isahaque Ali, Mohsin Ali, and Zobaidur Rahman expressed optimism about the season’s prospects, stating that they transitioned to maize cultivation after harvesting Aman rice.

Businessman Mosfiqur Rahman Chowdhury reported that maize is currently selling at Taka 1,200–1,300 per mound (40 kg) in local markets, ensuring profitable returns for farmers.

The continued expansion of maize cultivation, both on mainland and char lands, is expected to significantly contribute to poverty alleviation and livelihood improvement in the region. With strong market demand and favorable environmental conditions, Rangpur’s maize farmers are poised for yet another successful season.

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