Farmers in Kishoreganj, the hub of agricultural activity in the region, are diligently preparing seedbeds for Boro rice cultivation, as they anticipate a bumper harvest this year.
Agriculture is the primary livelihood source for many in the district and farmers are committed to the successful cultivation of Boro rice in the haor areas, barring any unforeseen natural calamities.
With favourable weather conditions this year, farmers from all upazilas have started early preparations for sowing Boro paddy. As part of the proactive approach, farmers are preparing seedbeds for Boro-Aman paddies without taking risks. They are sourcing high-quality seeds from the agriculture office to ensure a strong start to the season.
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According to the local farmers, late November to early December brings severe cold and dense fog, which poses a threat to the tender Boro rice seedlings, often destroying them in the seedbed. To avoid this, they have decided to begin seedbed preparation earlier than usual this year.
The farmers have procured good quality seeds from the agricultural seed marketing offices. Seedbed preparation is already underway and farmers expect to begin planting soon.
The agriculture department has advised farmers to prepare ideal seedbeds and procure quality seeds to enhance the chances of a fruitful harvest. The department also expressed confidence in meeting its Boro cultivation target this season, with expectations of higher-than-usual production.
In Kishoreganj district, a total of 3,100 metric tons of seeds have been allocated for Boro cultivation. Currently, around 1,600 metric tons of seeds remain in stock, ensuring no shortage of seeds for farmers, according to the department sources.
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Authorities have also emphasised that strict legal action will be taken against any attempts to create an artificial seed crisis.
AKM Moniruzzaman, deputy director of Seed Marketing in Kishoreganj said that the target for Boro cultivation this year is set at 168,100 hectares of land.
“With favourable weather conditions, farmers are hopeful that this year’s harvest will surpass all previous records, with an expected output of approximately 737,020 metric tons of rice,” he said.