Kishoreganj, Apr 25 (V7N) — The haor regions of Kishoreganj are currently bustling with activity as farmers harvest Boro rice in full swing. From dawn to dusk, fields are alive with the rhythm of cutting, threshing, and baling paddy, while the air carries the fresh aroma of newly harvested rice.

Despite a bumper yield this season, farmers are facing significant financial distress.

According to local sources, favorable weather conditions have led to higher-than-expected production of Boro rice this year. However, the joy of a good harvest has been overshadowed by falling market prices. At the field level, middlemen—commonly known as Faria and Dadan traders—are purchasing paddy at prices ranging from Tk 650 to Tk 700 per maund, while the cost of production stands between Tk 850 and Tk 900. This disparity is forcing farmers to incur losses.

Many farmers report being compelled to sell their produce at lower prices due to immediate financial pressures. They allege that the dominance of intermediaries is destabilizing the market, leaving producers with little bargaining power.

Although the government has announced the commencement of its procurement program, farmers say its impact is yet to be felt at the grassroots level. They warn that without swift and effective implementation, ensuring fair prices will remain out of reach.

Commenting on the situation, Deputy Director of the Department of Agricultural Extension in Kishoreganj, Agriculturist Dr. Sadiqur Rahman, said, “If there are no natural disasters such as early floods or hailstorms, this year’s rice production is expected to exceed the target.”

However, farmers emphasize that increasing production alone is not enough. They insist that ensuring fair market prices has now become the most pressing challenge.

END/SMA/AJ