Transforming Bangladesh's farming future

Bangladesh, where over 65 per cent of the population is engaged in agriculture, faces the pressing challenge of feeding a growing population while ensuring sustainable farming practices. Traditional methods, dependence on chemical fertilisers, and vulnerability to climate change continue to limit productivity. Yet the introduction of smart agriculture technologies -- such as drones, IoT-based soil sensors, precision farming, and AI-driven crop monitoring -- is beginning to reshape the sector.
Smallholder farmers, who make up more than 80 per cent of the agricultural workforce (BBS, 2025), often lack access to modern tools. Smart solutions can help them optimise irrigation, monitor crop health in real time, reduce pesticide use, and increase yields. For example, AI-based weather models now assist rice and wheat farmers in preparing for floods or droughts, reducing losses and enhancing food security.
Government initiatives like Digital Agriculture 2030, alongside collaborations with the FAO and the World Bank, are gradually expanding training, affordable tools, and financial support. In some areas using IoT irrigation systems, productivity has risen by 20-25 per cent -- a clear evidence of the benefits. Furthermore, smart agriculture creates new rural employment in drone operation, data analysis, and machinery maintenance, reducing pressure on cities and advancing sustainable development.
Private enterprises and agri-tech start-ups are also stepping forward, linking farmers to buyers, finance, and advisory services. With lessons drawn from global successes such as India's e-Choupal and Israel's precision farming, Bangladesh has the potential to build a competitive and climate-resilient agricultural sector.
However, challenges remain: high initial costs, limited digital literacy and uneven internet coverage hinder adoption. Government, private sector and NGOs must work together to provide subsidies, expand digital education, and improve rural connectivity.
Smart agriculture offers Bangladesh a transformative course for boosting productivity, protecting the environment and empowering farmers. By embracing innovation now, the nation can secure both food security and rural prosperity for the future.

Towfiq Sultan
Lecturer, Brave Jubilant Scholars of
Monohardi Model College,
Monohardi, Narsingdi
towfiqsultan.help@gmail.com