Rajshahi: In the paddy fields of Rajshahi, where golden crops signal the arrival of harvest season, farmers are discovering renewed hope-not only from rice, but increasingly from straw. In Pakuria village under Paba upazila, farmer Rafiqul Islam recently harvested paddy from his one-bigha field. While rising cultivation costs have made profit margins tighter, he says the straw from his field has become a valuable support for his household. “Even if the return from paddy is limited, the straw gives us something extra,” Rafiqul said with a smile. “It helps us manage.”
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, farmers in the region say production costs have increased over the years due to higher prices of labor, fertilizer, irrigation, and other inputs. Despite this, they continue paddy cultivation, as it ensures food security for their families and sustains their rural livelihoods. Paddy is currently being sold at Tk 1,000-1,100 per maund in local markets. While this sometimes leaves little surplus income, farmers are finding ways to adapt.
Straw, once seen as a secondary product, is now gaining importance. Many farmers use it as feed for cattle, while others sell it locally, creating an additional stream of income. Al Mamun, a farmer from Godagari upazila, said straw plays an important role in his household economy. “I have two cows, so the straw is very useful. It supports my livestock and reduces my expenses,” he said.
Across Rajshahi, Naogaon, Natore, and Chapainawabganj districts, farmers report that yields have been good this season. The sight of harvested paddy entering homes has brought a sense of relief and continuity, even as farmers carefully manage their finances. Agricultural officials say efforts are ongoing to further improve farmers’ conditions. The Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) is promoting modern farming techniques, improved seed varieties, and mechanization to help reduce costs and increase productivity.
Deputy Director of DAE Mosammat Sabina Begum said, “With proper planning and use of modern technology, farmers can gradually improve their profitability.” At the same time, government procurement programmes are being implemented to support farmers with fair prices. In Rajshahi district, 7,548 metric tonnes of Boro paddy are set to be purchased at government-fixed rates this season. Officials are also encouraging farmers to store paddy when possible, so they can benefit from better market prices later in the season.
For many farmers, paddy cultivation remains more than just a business-it is a way of life. It ensures food for the family and keeps agricultural traditions alive. While challenges remain, farmers are showing resilience by making the most of every part of their harvest. Straw, in particular, has emerged as a small but meaningful source of stability.
As Rafiqul Islam puts it, “The field gives us more than one kind of return. We just have to use it wisely.” In the golden fields of Rajshahi, that spirit of adaptation and hope continues to grow-quietly strengthening the lives of farmers, one harvest at a time.