Dinajpur: The Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) has set a target to cultivate wheat on 7,275 hectares of land in the district during the current season, aiming to boost production and meet the country’s growing demand. Deputy Director of DAE Md. Afzal Hossain stated that this target encompasses all 13 upazilas of the district, with a production goal of 3.75 metric tons per hectare. If achieved, this would bring the total wheat production in the district to approximately 25,650 metric tons.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Md. Afzal Hossain indicated that the weather conditions are conducive for wheat cultivation this season. He expressed optimism that, barring any natural disasters, the production may surpass the set target. Farmers initiated the cultivation of early wheat varieties such as BARI-25, BARI-26, and BARI-27 from November 15, and the crops have already begun to sprout. Sowing of wheat varieties including BARI-27, 28, 30, 31, and 32 will continue until December 31.
Post the Aman paddy harvest, farmers have been actively preparing land using organic manure and cow dung to enhance yields. The Department of Agriculture has supplied high-yielding wheat seeds, particularly BARI-30, 31, and 32, with an anticipated yield of 3.75 tons per hectare. To aid in cultivation, irrigation facilities powered by electric machines have been ensured, alongside pre-installed drainage systems to safeguard crops from potential storm or heavy rainfall damage.
The deputy director noted that this initiative is part of a larger strategy to lessen reliance on wheat imports. The Wheat Research Institute is providing improved high-yielding seed varieties, with agricultural field workers offering continuous guidance to farmers throughout the district. In recent years, wheat cultivation has expanded from highlands to medium lands and river-side char areas. Agriculture department sources reported that wheat was cultivated on 6,210 hectares in Dinajpur last year, yielding 23,287 metric tons with an average yield of 3.75 tons per hectare.