By Barsha Gain and Biswajit Mondal from Shyamnagar, Satkhira

Native Aman rice seeds were distributed among 76 farmers from 18 villages across 7 unions of Shyamnagar Upazila recently. The distribution arranged by BARCIK held at the Srifolkati Agroecology Learning Center, featured traditional rice varieties like Chinikani, Patnai, Talmugur, Swarnamashuri, Charulata, Kute Patnai, and Darshail. A total of 225 kg of seeds were distributed among farmers.

The event was chaired by farmer Govinda Mondal, with Upazila Agriculture Officer Nazmul Huda attending as chief guest. Representatives from BARCIK, local farmers’ groups, and youth organizers also participated.

Nazmul Huda while appreciating the event said, “Conserving and sharing native varieties is essential, and we will continue to support such efforts.” BARCIK Regional Coordinator Ramkrishna Joardar highlighted the importance of climate-resilient local varieties in the coastal region’s saline and disaster-prone conditions.

Farmer Ganesh Mondal mentioned that while hybrid rice yields more but the production cost is high. On the other hand, local varieties offer sustainable production at lower cost.

Following the program, the Agriculture Officer visited the agroecology learning center and emphasized the need to expand such practices throughout the region.