By Gunjon Rema, from Kalmakanda, Netrakona

In Chandradinga village of Kalmakanda upazila, Netrokona district, 11 farmers have set an example of self-reliance and collective action in agriculture. Last year, with support from BARCIK, they received seeds to cultivate peanuts experimentally on previously uncultivated sandy enabling them to be benefited producing peanuts.

Building on that success, this year 7 of the 11 farmers have launched a new initiative. They set aside a total of BDT 5,500 from peanut sales in a clear glass jar with the objective to buy seeds in next season. The farmers explored this idea since peanut seeds cannot be conserved long-term. Thus, instead of seeds they chose to save money to allow each of them can withdraw their share to buy seeds as needed. Participants include Parimal Rema, Md. Shahabuddin, Benuka Mrong, Pulak Kubi, Sabina Rema, Jilita Mankhin, and Hriday Hajong.

Peanut seeds do not store well, so farmers must buy new seeds every year. But often they cannot afford quality seeds at the right time. By saving money in advance, they ensure they can all buy seeds next season without hardship.

Farmer Parimal Rema thus, said, “We decided together so that no one would face problems at planting time. That is why we set money aside right after selling the peanuts. BARCIK official Gunjon Rema said, “This is a farmer-led solution developed from their own thinking. BARCIK welcomes such initiatives and hopes to encourage similar practices in other villages.”

This initiative in Chandradinga is more than just a savings method because rather it is a form of social and economic safety net. By planning together, farmers are solving their own problems and setting an inspiring model for other communities.