Khagrachhari:A young agricultural entrepreneur has paved the way for innovative farming in the hills of Khagrachhari by successfully cultivating black rice on an experimental basis. This initiative has sparked hopes of introducing a high-value, nutrient-rich crop in the region.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Enamul Haque Enam, a farmer from Golak Pratimachhara area in Panchhari upazila, achieved the district's first success in growing black rice on his own farmland. The dark-colored rice panicles amidst the lush green paddy field symbolize new possibilities for agricultural diversification in the hill district.
Inspired by the crop's market value and nutritional benefits, Enamul procured black rice seeds from Bogura at Taka 500 per kilogram. He prepared a seedbed, transplanted the seedlings, and nurtured the plants, resulting in promising panicles. These developments have raised his expectations for a substantial harvest.
Enamul initially cultivated black rice on 12 decimals of his land with encouraging results. He credits the local agriculture office for providing essential advice and support. Black rice, known for its strong market demand, sells for Taka 250 to Taka 350 per kilogram, offering a lucrative option for farmers seeking profitable alternatives to conventional crops.
Rashidul Kabir, Panchhari Upazila Agriculture Officer, noted the promising results of Enamul's initiative, describing black rice as highly nutritious with considerable potential for the region. The agriculture department is providing technical advice to support this cultivation.
Assistant Agriculture Officer Nayontu Chakma, responsible for the agricultural block covering Enamul's farmland, confirmed the success of the project and its potential for wider adoption. This experiment has raised hopes that black rice cultivation could expand beyond Panchhari to other areas of Khagrachhari and the Chattogram Hill Tracts.
This venture represents more than just an unusual agricultural sight; it offers the possibility of transforming a small experimental plot into a profitable farming venture, inspiring other farmers to explore new opportunities. If replicated successfully across the hill districts, black rice could enhance the region's agricultural diversity, offering farmers a potential source of higher income and consumers access to a unique, nutrient-rich food.