DUMURIA, KHULNA, Oct 29: A bumper Aman paddy harvest in Dumuria Upazila of the district has brought smiles to local farmers, as good yields and high market prices promise a profitable season.
Across the upazila, fields are lush and green, swaying with golden paddy, reflecting both the hard work of farmers and the region's fertile lands.
Nurul Islam, a farmer from Khornia Union, said, "Paddy cultivation during the monsoon requires less irrigation, but pest attacks are somewhat higher. Despite the rising costs of pesticides and fertilisers, we are hopeful that this season's harvest will bring good profits." He added that careful management and timely application of inputs have played a key role in ensuring healthy crops.
Abul Kalam of Shobna Union, who planted BRRI Dhan-75, said, "I hope to harvest 20 to 22 maunds of paddy per bigha. This variety is suitable for our soil, and with favourable weather, it has grown well." Meanwhile, Kaiser Ali from Rudaghara Union, cultivating the new BRRI Dhan-103 variety, said, "If all goes well, I expect yields of 28 to 32 maunds per bigha. However, the costs of fertilizers and labour have risen sharply. Hiring one worker for harvesting now costs Tk 700-800, and finding enough labour is proving difficult."
Mustafizur Rahman, a farmer from Dumuria Sadar Union, who planted BRRI Dhan-49, said, "The yield has been excellent. I expect to harvest 28-30 maunds per bigha. Proper care and field management have really paid off this season."
Md. Insad Ibne Amin, Upazila Agriculture Officer, reported that Aman paddy was cultivated on 14,939 hectares this season, including varieties BRRI Dhan-49, 75, 87, Bina Dhan-17, and the new BRRI Dhan-103. Farmers received regular field-level advice and technical support, which helped maintain crop health and boost productivity.
Md. Nazrul Islam, Deputy Director of Khulna District Agriculture Extension Office, said, "Favourable weather and minimal pest attacks have allowed cultivation over larger areas than initially targeted, resulting in higher yields. Farmers are extremely pleased with the bumper harvest, and if weather and market conditions remain favourable, they are expected to earn the anticipated profits."
