KAHAROLE, DINAJPUR, Feb 11: The Department of Agriculture Extension (DAE) Kaharole Upazila in Dinajpur has set a target to cultivate maize on 11,620 hectares (ha) of land this season.
The target covers six unions of the upazila, where farmers are optimistic about achieving a bumper maize harvest.
Farmers said favourable weather conditions, along with modern agricultural techniques, have encouraged many to take up maize cultivation this year. Compared to rice cultivation, maize requires lower costs while offering higher returns, which has increased farmers' interest. Last year, high market prices for maize further motivated them to expand cultivation. Although the area under maize cultivation this year is slightly less than last year, expectations of good yields remain high.
According to the Upazila Agriculture Department, the 11,620-hectare target is likely to increase after the potato harvest. Last year, maize production per hectare was targeted at 139,440 metric tons (mt). Farmers like Md. Yasin Ali from Kazi Katna Village in Ramchandrapur Union said they usually grow more rice, but the profitability of maize has encouraged them to try it this year. Another farmer, Md. Hazrat Ali, noted that maize cultivation has steadily increased as it provides better returns than rice.
Farmers also pointed out that the high cost of fertilisers and pesticides slightly reduces profits, and they hope these prices become more affordable in the future.
Upazila Agriculture Officer Md. Zahidur Rahman said the department is encouraging farmers to use modern farming techniques for maize and other crops. He added that the authorities are monitoring the supply of seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and fuel to ensure farmers can access them easily.
With the combination of favourable weather and efficient use of modern agricultural practices, farmers in Kaharole are optimistic about achieving a bumper maize harvest. Maize cultivation is gradually transforming the livelihoods of the upazila's residents and contributing to agricultural development in the region.
