Containing spread of tobacco cultivation

Tobacco cultivation is not a new thing in Bangladesh. But what is worrying is that the number of tobacco farmers is increasing day by day across the country. Once, it was cultivated only in northern districts like Rangpur and Lalmonirhat. However, tobacco farming has now spread over many places including several remote parts of Chittagong Hill Tracts. Farmers show interest in tobacco farming mainly because it earns them more profit. Moreover, some tobacco companies are providing them with seedlings, fertilisers and other supports free of cost.

Tobacco is a poisonous crop. It makes soil lose its fertility. Moreover, the farmers and their families also face health risks from tobacco production and processing. This harmful tobacco farming should be stopped as soon as possible. The authorities concerned should take measures to motivate tobacco farmers not to cultivate it.

Badsha Faysal,

Jurain, Dhaka,

badshafaysal1998@gmail.com