Ensuring fair price for farmers

The recent decline in paddy prices across Bangladesh has become a matter of serious concern. Despite a good harvest this season, farmers are struggling to secure fair prices for their produce, creating a widening gap between production costs and returns.

Over the years, the cost of paddy cultivation has risen significantly. Expenses for seeds, fertilisers, irrigation, pesticides and labour have all increased. However, market prices have failed to keep pace with these rising costs. As a result, many farmers are being forced to sell their produce at low prices, often incurring losses.

This situation can largely be attributed to weak market management, the dominance of middlemen, and inadequate monitoring mechanisms. Although the government announces procurement prices, effective implementation at the field level remains limited.

To address this issue, immediate policy intervention is necessary. Expanding direct procurement from farmers, ensuring fair pricing, and improving market transparency should be prioritised. In addition, easier access to agricultural credit and subsidies could help reduce the financial burden on farmers.

Agriculture remains the backbone of Bangladesh's economy. Protecting farmers' interests is therefore not only a social responsibility but also an economic necessity. Without timely measures, prolonged price instability may discourage farmers and adversely affect future production.

Hamidur Rahman

Student

Comilla University

hamidur203.cou@gmail.com