Bumper yield in first-time cultivation of BRRI Dhan-101, 102 in Bandarban's Ruma

Farmers in Bandarban’s Ruma upazila have achieved bumper production by cultivating zinc-enriched high-yielding BRRI Dhan-101 and BRRI Dhan-102 for the first time.

This scene creates enthusiasm among local growers and raises hopes for improved nutrition and food security in the hill region.

With support from the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), around 15 farmers cultivated the two rice varieties experimentally during the current Boro season.

As harvesting is now underway, farmers are busy cutting paddy from fields filled with golden crops and expressing satisfaction over the better-than-expected yields.

Farmers said the new rice varieties produced significantly higher yields compared to traditional strains due to their larger panicles.

Farmer Prusathui Marma of Thana Para area said he cultivated BRRI Dhan on 33 decimals of land for the first time and was highly satisfied with the production.

“Compared to previous varieties, the panicles are larger and production is much higher,” he said.

According to DAE sources, BRRI Dhan-101 is a zinc-enriched high-yielding variety capable of producing between 7.76 and 8.50 metric tonnes per hectare, while BRRI Dhan-102 yields around 8.10 metric tonnes per hectare on average under proper management.

Agriculture officials said both varieties produce fine-quality rice and contain high levels of zinc, with around 25.5 milligrams of zinc available in every kilogram of rice.

Experts said zinc plays an important role in boosting immunity and preventing various health complications, including impaired mental development in children, reduced concentration, hair loss and brittle nails.

Officials concerned believe expansion of these nutrient-rich rice varieties is particularly important for remote hill areas where healthcare services remain limited.

The agriculture department also noted that the two varieties are resistant to bacterial leaf blight (BLB), one of the major diseases affecting rice cultivation, reducing risks for farmers.

Ruma Upazila Agriculture Officer AKM Faridul Haque said the department has been working to expand modern high-yielding rice varieties in the hilly region.

“BRRI Dhan-101 and 102 have proven highly suitable for the soil and climate of Ruma. As farmers are getting good yields, more farmers will be encouraged to cultivate these varieties in the future," he said.

He added that farmers are being provided with regular field-level advice and technical support to modernise agriculture in the area.

UM/AM