This slide describes role of agriculture in Bangladesh : present position, Problems, Prospects and policy

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Assignment Name: Role of Agriculture In Bangladesh
Submitted To:
Uswatun Hasana Hashi
Department Of Agricultural Science
Daffodil International University
Submitted From:
Rifat Hasan Rabbi
ID: 232-55-012
Department Of Agricultural Science
Daffodil International University
Date Of Submission: 02/09/2023

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Index
Introduction:
Bangladesh's agriculture plays a crucial role in its economy and food security. The
country primarily relies on rice, jute, tea, and various fruits and vegetables as key
agricultural products. Rice is the staple crop and a major food source for the population.
Additionally, the jute industry has been historically significant for Bangladesh's economy,
although it has faced some challenges in recent years. The agriculture sector in
Bangladesh has seen improvements in productivity due to government initiatives and
technological advancements. These include the adoption of high-yield rice varieties,
improved irrigation systems, and better farming practices. However, challenges such as
land scarcity, water management issues, and climate change impacts like flooding and
cyclones still pose significant obstacles to sustainable agriculture in the region. Efforts
to diversify crops and increase agricultural resilience continue to be a focus, with
initiatives to promote non-traditional crops and aquaculture. Additionally, Bangladesh
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Description Page
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1. Introduction 2
2. Methodology 3
3. Result and Discussion 3
4. Conclusion 4
5. Reference 10

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has made efforts to promote organic farming practices and improve access to credit and
technology for farmers.
Overall, agriculture remains a vital sector in Bangladesh, providing employment to a
large portion of the population and contributing significantly to the country's GDP.
Sustainable agricultural practices and continued investment in the sector are critical for
ensuring food security and economic growth in Bangladesh.
Methodology:
Data for this assignment was gathered from various sources, including government
reports, international organizations, and academic papers. Statistical analysis was used
to present key insights into the role of agriculture in Bangladesh.
Primary Data: Conduct structured interviews and surveys with farmers, government
officials, and agricultural experts. Collect field data on crop cultivation, livestock farming,
and agricultural practices.
Secondary Data: Gather historical agricultural data from government publications,
research papers, and relevant organizations. Utilize international databases and reports
for comparative analysis.
Literature Review: Review academic literature on the significance of agriculture in
Bangladesh. Analyze existing studies and reports on agricultural production, rural
livelihoods, and food security.
Statistical Analysis: Historical Agricultural Production: Analyze the trends in major crops
(rice, jute, wheat, etc.) production over the last two decades. Examine variations in crop
yields and identify factors influencing productivity.
Results:
Contribution to GDP: Agriculture in Bangladesh has consistently played a significant
role in the country's economy. In the past two decades, it has contributed, on average,
around 15-20% to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This contribution has remained
stable, despite the growth of other sectors like manufacturing and services.
Employment Generation: The agricultural sector is the largest employer in Bangladesh,
providing livelihoods for approximately 40-45% of the population. The sector remains a
critical source of employment, especially in rural areas, contributing to poverty reduction
and income generation.
Food Security: Agriculture is the cornerstone of food security in Bangladesh. The
country's staple food, rice, is predominantly produced domestically. Data indicates a
consistent increase in food production, ensuring adequate food availability for the
population.

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Export Earnings: Bangladesh has seen substantial growth in agricultural exports, with
items like rice, jute, and shrimp being major contributors. The agricultural export sector
has become an essential source of foreign exchange earnings, helping to stabilize the
country's economy.
Rural Development:
The prosperity of rural areas is intricately linked to agricultural growth. Successful
agricultural endeavors lead to increased income for rural communities, improved
infrastructure, and enhanced access to education and healthcare services.
Discussion:
Contribution to GDP: Agriculture has consistently been a major contributor to
Bangladesh's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). According to the World Bank data of
2020, the agriculture sector contributed around 14.5% to the country's GDP. (Reference:
World Bank, 2020)
Employment Generation: The agriculture sector is the largest employer in Bangladesh,
providing livelihoods to a substantial portion of the population. Approximately 40% of the
total labor force is engaged in agricultural activities, including crop cultivation, livestock
rearing, and fisheries. (Reference: Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics, 2020)

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Food Security: Agriculture plays a vital role in ensuring food security for the nation's
population. Bangladesh's rice production, for instance, stood at 35.9 million metric tons
in 2020, making it one of the world's top rice-producing countries. This not only caters to
domestic consumption but also contributes to international trade. (Reference: Food and
Agriculture Organization, 2020)
Export Earnings: The agriculture sector is a significant source of export earnings for
Bangladesh. Ready-made garments are a major contributor, but agricultural products
like jute, tea, and frozen fish also play a crucial role. In 2020, agricultural exports
accounted for approximately 15% of the total export earnings. (Reference: Export
Promotion Bureau, 2020)
Poverty Alleviation: Agriculture has been instrumental in reducing poverty levels in
Bangladesh. The increased agricultural productivity and rural development programs
have contributed to lifting many people out of poverty. The Poverty Reduction Strategy
Paper of Bangladesh emphasizes the role of agriculture in reducing poverty.
(Reference: Government of Bangladesh, 2015)
Climate Resilience and Adaptation: Given Bangladesh's vulnerability to climate change,
agriculture plays a vital role in climate resilience and adaptation. The adoption of
climate-smart agricultural practices, such as flood-resistant rice varieties and improved
water management techniques, is essential for sustainable agricultural development.
(Reference: International Fund for Agricultural Development, 2020)
Comparative Analysis: Compared to neighboring countries, Bangladesh's agriculture
stands out for its dependence on rice production and its success in the export of certain
agricultural commodities. Learning from the experiences of other nations in diversifying
crops and modernizing agriculture can provide valuable insights.

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Farmers Credit Sources and uses: Farmers access to credit sources and their utilization
significantly shape the role of agriculture in Bangladesh. When farmers can secure
credit, they often invest in essential resources such as high-quality seeds, fertilizers,
and modern equipment. This, in turn, enhances agricultural productivity and contributes
to food security and economic growth.
However, the source and use of credit are critical. Formal credit institutions like banks
can provide farmers with affordable and sustainable financing options, while informal
sources may lead to high-interest rates and debt burdens. Effective use of credit for
productive purposes, such as expanding irrigation or adopting innovative farming
techniques, can lead to increased yields and income.
Government policies in Bangladesh also play a vital role in regulating credit access and
promoting responsible use. Ensuring that farmers have access to affordable credit and
are educated on its effective utilization is essential for strengthening the pivotal role of
agriculture in Bangladesh's economy and livelihoods.
Major Crops and Farming Practices in Bangladesh

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Rice Cultivation: Rice is the staple food of Bangladesh and occupies the largest share
of cultivated land. The two main seasons for rice cultivation are the rainy (kharif) season
and the dry (rabi) season. Traditional methods of rice cultivation include transplanting
seedlings in flooded fields, known as "aman" rice, and cultivating in the dry season,
known as "boro" rice. Farmers also practice "aus" rice cultivation, which is less
dependent on irrigation.
Jute Production: Jute, often referred to as the "golden fiber," has historical significance
in Bangladesh. It is a major cash crop and a significant export product. Jute fibers are
used in making various products like sacks, bags, textiles, and even handicrafts. Jute
cultivation and processing contribute to the country's economy and provide employment
opportunities.
Tea Plantations: The northeastern region of Bangladesh, particularly Sylhet and the
Chittagong Hill Tracts, is known for tea cultivation. Tea plantations contribute to both
domestic consumption and export. The industry provides employment to a significant
number of people and is an essential source of revenue.
Vegetable Farming: A wide variety of vegetables are cultivated across Bangladesh to
cater to domestic consumption and markets. These include potatoes, tomatoes, onions,
carrots, and various leafy greens. Vegetable farming contributes to nutritional diversity
and provides income to smallholder farmers.
Fruits Cultivation: Bangladesh produces a range of fruits, including mangoes, bananas,
pineapples, citrus fruits, and guavas. Mangoes, in particular, are renowned for their
quality and flavor. Fruit cultivation not only supports local diets but also contributes to
revenue through exports.
Fisheries: Given Bangladesh's extensive network of rivers, lakes, and ponds,
aquaculture and fisheries are integral to the agricultural sector. Fish, shrimp, and other
aquatic products are essential protein sources for the population. Fish farming practices
include pond culture and even integrated rice-fish farming.
Poultry and Livestock Farming: Poultry farming, including chicken and duck rearing, is
common in both rural and urban areas. Additionally, livestock farming involving cows,
goats, and buffaloes plays a significant role in providing dairy products, meat, and other
animal-derived resources.

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Challenges in Agricultural Development
Climate Change: Bangladesh is highly susceptible to the adverse effects of climate
change, including increased temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, and more
frequent natural disasters like cyclones and floods. These factors disrupt agricultural
activities, damage crops, and lead to soil erosion and land degradation.
Land Degradation and Soil Fertility Loss: Overuse of chemical fertilizers and inadequate
soil management practices have led to soil degradation and reduced fertility. This affects
crop yields, decreases agricultural productivity, and necessitates sustainable soil
conservation measures.
Water Scarcity and Irrigation Challenges: Inconsistent water availability, especially
during dry seasons, affects crop irrigation and productivity. Proper irrigation systems are
essential to mitigate water scarcity challenges and ensure consistent crop growth.
Lack of Mechanization: A significant portion of agricultural activities in Bangladesh is still
carried out using traditional, labor-intensive methods. The lack of modern machinery
hampers efficiency, productivity, and the ability to compete in a rapidly evolving global
agricultural landscape.
Access to Finance and Technology: Many smallholder farmers lack access to financial
resources and modern agricultural technologies. Limited access to credit, improved
seeds, fertilizers, and advanced farming equipment restricts their ability to modernize
and enhance productivity.
Pests and Diseases: Crop pests, diseases, and post-harvest losses pose persistent
challenges to agricultural production. Integrated pest management practices and
improved storage facilities are necessary to mitigate these issues.
Market Access: Limited infrastructure, poor transportation, and inadequate storage
facilities can lead to post-harvest losses and challenges in accessing markets.
Strengthening the agricultural value chain is essential to ensure farmers receive fair
prices and consumers have access to quality produce.
Lack of Research and Extension Services: Insufficient research and extension services
hinder the dissemination of new agricultural technologies and best practices to farmers.
Investment in agricultural research and education is crucial for improving production
methods and overall sector development.

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Government and NGO Initiatives in the Role of Agriculture in Bangladesh
The government of Bangladesh, along with Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs),
has played a crucial role in advancing the agriculture sector in the country. These
initiatives encompass a wide range of programs and policies aimed at promoting
sustainable agriculture, increasing productivity, and improving the livelihoods of farmers.
Here, we delve into some of the key initiatives undertaken by both government and
NGOs in Bangladesh's agricultural sector.
Government Initiatives:
Agricultural Policy Framework: The Government of Bangladesh has adopted several
agricultural policies, including the National Agriculture Policy (2018) and the Agricultural
Policy (2018), which provide a comprehensive framework for the development of the
agriculture sector. These policies prioritize food security, poverty reduction, and rural
development.
Krishi Khamar Loan: The government provides subsidized agricultural loans through the
Krishi Khamar Loan program. This initiative aims to ensure that farmers have access to
affordable credit to invest in agricultural inputs, machinery, and technology.
Input Subsidies: The government offers subsidies on agricultural inputs such as seeds,
fertilizers, and pesticides to reduce production costs for farmers and make these
essential resources more accessible.
Technology Adoption: To encourage the adoption of modern farming techniques, the
government promotes the use of improved seeds, irrigation facilities, and
mechanization. Research and development institutions like the Bangladesh Agricultural
Research Institute (BARI) are pivotal in introducing innovative technologies to farmers.
Climate-Resilient Agriculture: Given Bangladesh's susceptibility to climate change, the
government is actively engaged in promoting climate-resilient agriculture. Initiatives
include the development and dissemination of flood-tolerant rice varieties and the
introduction of climate-smart agricultural practices.
NGO Initiatives:
BRAC (formerly known as Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee): BRAC is one of
the largest NGOs in Bangladesh and has a significant presence in rural areas. They
have various agriculture-related programs, including agricultural extension services,
training for farmers in modern farming techniques, and support for women in agriculture.

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Grameen Foundation: This NGO is known for its microfinance programs, which have
supported countless small-scale farmers in accessing credit for agricultural purposes.
They also provide training and extension services to enhance farmers' skills and
productivity.
Practical Action: Practical Action focuses on sustainable agriculture and rural
development. Their initiatives include promoting organic farming, introducing innovative
farming technologies, and improving post-harvest management to reduce losses.
ACDI/VOCA: This NGO has worked on various agricultural development projects in
Bangladesh, focusing on value chain development, improving market access for
farmers, and strengthening agricultural cooperatives.
Conclusion:
Agriculture in Bangladesh remains the backbone of the economy, contributing
significantly to food security, rural employment, and income generation. However, it
faces several challenges that require proactive measures and policy interventions. The
government's commitment to modernize agriculture, promote sustainable practices, and
address the issues of small-scale farmers will be essential for the sector's continued
growth and the overall development of Bangladesh. In the coming years, it is imperative
to strike a balance between increased productivity and environmental sustainability to
ensure a prosperous future for agriculture in the country. Agriculture holds immense
importance in Bangladesh, serving as a foundation for the country's economy, culture,
and sustenance. Its significance extends beyond crop cultivation, as it provides
livelihoods, ensures food security, and contributes to rural and national development.
Being a major employer and contributor to the GDP, agriculture connects communities,
shapes traditions, and plays a crucial role in reducing poverty. The enduring role of
agriculture in Bangladesh highlights its lasting significance as a catalyst for growth,
nourishment, and progress.
References:
1. Ministry of Agriculture, Government of Bangladesh
2. Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute(BARI)
3. Bangladesh Agriculture and Food Security Project (BAFSP)
4. World Bank, 2020
5. Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics, 2020(BBS)
6. Food and Agriculture Organization, 2020
7. Export Promotion Bureau, 2020
8. Government of Bangladesh, 2015
9. International Fund for Agricultural Development, 2020