By Sattaranjan Saha, from Maniganj
An agrobiodiversity fair was organized at the Sultanpur (Bottola) field in Harirampur, Manikganj, jointly organized by Green Coalition, BARCIK, and local farmers. Local farmers displayed seed diversity stalls, medicinal plants, agricultural tools, and various clay products in the fair.
During the fair, along with visiting the stalls, discussions were held by Bolra Union Parishad member Awal Sikdar, herbal practitioner Rasheda Akter, farmer-scientist Abdul Baten, Shahin Biswas, farmer entrepreneur Shahid Biswas, BARCIK Associate Coordinator Satyaranjan Saha, Program Officer Mukhtar Hossain, and Agriculture Officer Moynal Haque.
The speakers emphasized the importance of conserving local seed diversity and practicing agroecology. They focused on the need to produce and use green manure to protect soil health and highlighted that agroecological practices are essential for preserving agricultural heritage and biodiversity of the country.
Local farmers exchanged knowledge and experiences about environmentally friendly agricultural practices. Farmers exchanged native seed varieties such as Digha rice, Hijol Digha rice, bottle gourd, and eggplant seeds. Participants observed the stalls and learned about farmers’ own seed conservation methods and cultivation practices. Information was also shared on preparing organic fertilizer from cow dung.
Farmer Abdul Baten spoke about livestock rearing, seeds conservation, and producing wooden ploughs to ensure independent farming practices. He also displayed traditional farming tools such as wooden ploughs, yokes, ladders, and matails at the exhibition stall.
Participants held posters calling on everyone to engage in agroecological practices and conserve seed diversity. At the end of the fair, local artists performed songs celebrating the country, soil, and people.
