JHENAIGATI, SHERPUR, May 6: Farmers in Jhenaigati Upazila of Sherpur are facing a paradox this Boro season-despite a bumper harvest, many say they are unable to make a profit as rising labour costs and falling paddy prices squeeze their earnings.
"Everyone's paddy has ripened at the same time, and occasional rainfall is making the situation worse. Low-lying fields are going under water. Labour costs have doubled, but paddy prices have fallen. I don't know how I will even bring my harvest home," said Md Asadul Islam, a farmer from Julgaon village.
The Boro harvesting season has begun, with fields across the upazila filled with ripe paddy. However, farmers say uncertainty is growing due to erratic weather, with fears that rain may further damage crops in low-lying areas.
At the same time, a sudden spike in demand for labour has pushed harvesting costs sharply higher. Farmers say they are now paying Tk 1,000 to Tk 1,100 per labourer per day-almost double the usual rate. Yet in the market, a maund of paddy is selling for only Tk 800 to Tk 900.
"This means the cost of hiring a labourer is higher than the price of a maund of paddy," said farmers, highlighting the extent of their financial strain.
Saddam Mondol, a farmer from Baliyagao village, said he fears significant losses this season. "Costs for ploughing, irrigation and pesticides have all increased. I am worried about how I will repay loans and shop debts," he said.
Farmers also said production costs have risen sharply over recent years, while paddy prices have remained low, leaving them unable to recover their investments. Many have become increasingly discouraged.
They urged the government to begin procurement of paddy without delay, warning that without intervention in the market, it would be difficult to offset losses.
Upazila Agriculture Officer Md Farhad Hossain said around 14,600 hectares of land have been brought under Boro cultivation this season.
He said farmers should benefit from the good yield but must act cautiously due to weather risks. "Harvesting has started in the past week and will be in full swing soon.
Farmers are advised to harvest when 80 percent of the crop is mature to avoid damage from hail or early rain," he said.
He also expressed hope that government procurement at Tk 1,440 per maund would help ensure fair prices for farmers.
