Dhaka: The government has finalized and approved cultivation and production targets for various crops under the intensive monsoon-season crop production program for the 2026-27 fiscal year. This decision was reached during a meeting at the Ministry of Agriculture, chaired by Agriculture Secretary Dr. Rafiqul I Mohamed. The meeting placed special emphasis on the cultivation and production of Aus and Aman rice to ensure food security.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the total cultivation target for Aus rice has been set at 10.224 million hectares, with a production target of 30.482 million metric tons of rice. This includes 9.212 million hectares dedicated to high-yielding varieties (HYV). For transplanted Aman rice, a major crop of the Kharif season, the cultivation target is 57.908 million hectares, expected to yield 160.007 million metric tons of rice. Additionally, Bona Aman cultivation is planned for 59.342 million hectares, aiming for a production target of 163.089 million metric tons of rice.
Agriculture Ministry sources indicated that targets have also been finalized for jute, maize, vegetables, and pulses. The jute production target is set at 83.215 million bales from 7.083 million hectares. Plans include cultivating summer maize on 0.987 million hectares and Kharif vegetables on 5.858 million hectares. Specific targets for pulses, oilseeds, mung beans, black gram, peanuts, and sesame have been established as well.
Furthermore, a cultivation target of 0.41 million hectares has been set for green chili, with an expected production of 4.307 million metric tons. Director General of the Department of Agricultural Extension, Md. Abdur Rahim, stated that implementation of the plans has commenced, with responsibilities distributed at the field level and area-based monitoring in place. Rahim expressed optimism regarding the achievement of these targets.
Additional Secretary Md. Selim Khan noted that officials have been instructed to ensure adequate supplies of seeds and fertilizers and to promote ginger cultivation in sacks. Agriculture Secretary Dr. Rafiqul I Mohamed emphasized the importance of increasing cultivable land and utilizing new technologies to boost production vertically.
Farmers are encouraged to call the helpline number 16123 for advice or assistance on agricultural issues, with specialized services provided free of charge.