By Touhidul Islam from Paba, Rajshahi:
A seed-sowing campaign was held in Bargachhi of Paba upazila recently to promote environmental protection, biodiversity conservation and youth engagement in nature-based initiatives.
The day-long campaign was organized jointly by the Bargachhi Farmers’ Unity Organization, Bargachhi Women’s Development Organization, Green Coalition and BARCIK. Local youth, farmers, community members, environmental activists and representatives of BARCIK and the Green Coalition participated in sowing palm and deodar seeds along roadsides and other open spaces in Bargachhi village.
Organizers said palm trees are an important part of Bangladesh’s rural landscape and biodiversity. They help to reduce soil erosion, provide shade and cooling, and create habitats for birds and other species. Palm trees also provide food and other useful resources for local communities.
Mosa. Rahima Begum, President of the Green Coalition, Paba, said, “Palm trees are deeply connected with our rural life. Their numbers are declining in many places. If we plant more seeds now, they will grow into trees in the future and make our environment greener and healthier.”
Md. Abdul Jabbar, President of the Bargachhi Farmers’ Unity Organization, said planting palm seeds is not simply about planting trees; it is an investment in a greener environment for future generations. He urged everyone to participate in such initiatives.
Farmer Md. Raihan Ali Jewel emphasized that planting seeds must be followed by regular care and protection. He said palm trees can contribute to addressing climate change and conserving biodiversity, but communities must take responsibility for nurturing the seedlings into mature trees.
According to Touhidul Islam, Program Officer, BARCIK, the campaign is part of BARCIK’s programme to plant 1 million seeds and saplings across the Barind region to protect the environment, address climate change and create a greener future.
He said, “As part of today’s campaign, 1,000 palm seeds and 2,000 deodar seeds were sown in Bargachhi,”. He added that the campaign also seeks to raise awareness about the environmental, economic and social importance of palm trees.