Bangladesh is capable of producing abundant crops, yet we find ourselves heavily dependent on importing essential food grains from other countries. This dependence stems from the failure of our agriculture department to effectively support our farmers. Despite their relentless efforts, often battling harsh weather conditions, farmers face immense challenges due to the shortcomings of the agricultural system.
The problems are multifaceted. Farmers are left to struggle with inadequate planning, insufficient guidance in timely crop cultivation and a lack of quality seeds. They are forced to fight against nature on the one hand, and on the other, they must protect their crops from disease with little or no assistance. Unfortunately, the Department of Agriculture, present at both district and upazila levels, rarely steps in to address these issues at the field level. Instead, they are busy maintaining data on crop cultivation-paddy, jute, peppers, potatoes-without engaging with the actual realities faced by farmers.
The disconnection between the Department of Agriculture and the real conditions in the fields is glaring. Crop production estimates are often based on hypothetical figures rather than actual field data. This disconnect leads to misguided decisions, such as reducing imports based on inaccurate production data, ultimately causing food shortages. When foodstuffs are imported, farmers suffer from low prices which discourage production the following year. This cycle of mismanagement contributes to food crises, with prices of staples like rice, potatoes, onions, ginger, and garlic soaring, causing hardship to ordinary citizens.
To break this cycle, the Department of Agriculture must take a more active role in the field. Setting realistic cultivation and production targets based on actual conditions is essential. For instance, spikes in essentials like onions occur whenever India imposes export bans. The solution lies in supporting our farmers, ensuring they have access to quality seeds, and setting appropriate production targets. Regions like Pabna, Sirajganj, Faridpur, and Rajbari are well-known for onion production. If farmers in these areas receive the right support, we would not need to rely on imports.
Moreover, proper planning and support in ginger cultivation could significantly increase domestic production. The Animal Husbandry Department also needs to be more proactive in assisting farmers, as their success is closely tied to the overall success of our agricultural sector.
Akhtar Hussain
Sreepur, Gazipur