Rice production in Bangladesh has increased many folds since its independence. What policies contributed to the increase in rice production and what are the rooms for improvement?
Rice, being the primary crop and staple food of Bangladesh, dominates agricultural production, employment, nutritional intake, and contributes substantially to national income. Bangladesh ranks as the third-largest producer of rice globally, having about 39.1 million tonnes in rice production in 2023.
The Growth in Rice Production
In the last few years, Bangladesh saw significant improvement in rice production. From 2009 to 2022, crop yield per hectare increased from 3,761 kg to 5,005 kg. Furthermore, food grain production increased from 34.71 million tons in 2008-09 to 47.77 million tons in 2022-23.
This growth results from timely and agriculture-friendly policies and actions. The government introduced several initiatives, including cards for fertiliser, seeds, and other agricultural inputs; mechanisation of irrigation and farming; crop diversification and marketing; and agricultural rehabilitation support to help the sector thrive.
Additionally, the government has implemented measures to directly transfer cash benefits to farmers using mobile banking, with the list of farmers holding cards for agricultural input assistance being updated.
The government has also emphasised environmentally-friendly and climate-adaptive programs to ensure sustainable development in the agriculture sector. State-owned institutions such as the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI), the Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture (BINA), and the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI) have developed various crop varieties that can withstand adverse effects of natural calamities.
Rice production in Bangladesh increased for the sixth consecutive year in the fiscal year (FY) 2022-23, driven by farmers expanding the cultivation of high-yielding varieties (HYV) and hybrid rice instead of traditional local varieties. In FY23, total rice production increased by 2.5 percent year-on-year, reaching a record 3.91 crore tonnes.
The high production levels are attributed to the introduction and cultivation of new, higher-yielding seed varieties, improved field management by farmers, and balanced fertiliser use, supported by government subsidies for non-urea fertilisers. Seven years ago, Bangladesh’s total rice production was 3.38 crore tonnes.
Since FY2018, overall rice yield has been increasing due to the expansion of the gross rice-planting area and a higher proportion of modern varieties. This development has helped reduce the need for rice imports. In FY23, private and public agencies imported 10.5 lakh tonnes of rice, slightly more than the previous fiscal year. However, between July 1 and October 12 of FY2023-24, rice imports dropped to zero due to the increased yields in the last fiscal year.
Data from the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) showed that in FY23, the area planted with HYV rice seeds across all crop seasons combined grew to 81 percent of the total rice acreage, up from 73 percent in FY10. Similarly, the area under hybrid rice, which yields more than both HYV and local seed varieties, increased from 6 percent in FY10 to 10 percent in FY23. During this period, the cultivation of local rice varieties declined by half, to 9 percent of the total rice area.
Challenges Regarding Rice Production in Bangladesh
Pest Infestations
Insects cause 4-14% Losses
Per year on an average
Bacterial Leaf Blight
Caused by nematode D. angustus
Bangladesh’s annual rice production suffers significant losses, ranging from 4% to 14%, due to various insect pests. Severe diseases such as bacterial leaf blight (BLB) and ufra (caused by the nematode D. angustus) have negatively impacted rice crops. Unfortunately, there is a severe lack of technologies capable of providing resistance against these pests and diseases.
Market Manipulation
1.35 Million Tonnes of Rice
Imported in 2021 due to effects of hoarding
Despite ample production and increased imports, Bangladesh experienced soaring rice prices in 2021. This price surge was driven by some major market players hoarding rice, which adversely affected farmers and the working class. To stabilise prices, the government imported 1.35 million tonnes of rice in the 2020-21 financial year at reduced tariffs. However, this strategy has not effectively lowered retail prices due to ongoing market distortions.
Poor Supply Chain Planning
Lack of Reliable Data
Causing supply-demand gap
Even with a significant surplus, accounting for non-human consumption factors, Bangladesh continues to import rice through public and private enterprises. Experts attribute this issue to a lack of reliable data and criticize government agencies for inconsistencies. This gap between actual demand and supply has created opportunities for exploitation within the supply chain.
Climate Change
11.1-14.4% Decrease in Rice Yields
Due to 1°C temperature rise
The impacts of climate change, including rising temperatures, changes in rainfall patterns, increased flooding, droughts, and extreme climatic events is a great challenge in this regard. These factors can lead to significant reductions in rice yields, with estimates suggesting that for every 1°C temperature rise, irrigated and rain-fed rice yields could decrease by 11.1% and 14.4%, respectively.
Sea Level Rise and Salinization
21% of National Domestic Rice Production
In the coastal area
As a coastal country, Bangladesh is vulnerable to sea-level rise, which can cause inundation, coastal erosion, and saline water intrusion. This salinization of soil and water resources poses a serious threat to rice cultivation, particularly in the coastal regions, which contributes 21% of the national domestic rice production.
Socio-Economic Challenges
Several socio-economic factors can impact the resilience of rice production systems, such as population pressure, shrinking arable land due to urbanisation and non-agricultural land use, farm labour shortages, increasing demand for non-rice crops and alternative farming systems (e.g., aquaculture, orchards), and geopolitical issues like transboundary water sharing and trade restrictions.
Limited Mechanization
Despite significant advancements in rice production, Bangladesh still faces a considerable productivity gap, with growth rates stagnating around 1%, lagging behind neighbouring countries. Climate change poses a significant challenge, leaving large areas of arable land uncultivated. Experts suggest that the agriculture sector needs to transform through the mechanisation of rice production. However, the lack of domestically manufactured high-quality agricultural machinery poses a notable obstacle. This issue is particularly evident in the limitations faced in producing larger machines such as threshers, planters, and combine harvesters. Additionally, limited access to financial opportunities for farmers complicates efforts to address these limitations.
Steps Taken to Improve Rice Production
Use of Nuclear Science
Since the 1970s, Bangladesh has made significant strides in rice production through the use of nuclear science, particularly plant mutation breeding. The Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture (BINA), with assistance from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and its technical cooperation programme, has developed thirteen new rice varieties using this technique.
Plant mutation breeding involves exposing seeds to radiation to create genetic variations. These variations are then selected for desirable traits, such as higher yield and resistance to adverse conditions. This method has not only been applied to rice but also to over 40 other crop varieties in Bangladesh, including chickpeas, jute, lentils, mustard seed, peanuts, sesame seed, soybean, tomato, and wheat.
The new rice varieties developed through this technique have provided Bangladeshi farmers with solutions to persistent agricultural challenges. These challenges include water shortages, drought, salty soil, and soil degradation, which have previously made it difficult for crops to survive and rendered land unusable for farming. By enhancing the resilience of crops to these adverse conditions, plant mutation breeding has played a crucial role in boosting rice production in Bangladesh.
Establishment of Paddy Silos
200 Paddy Silos
Across the Country
In October 2019, the Ministry of Food revealed a plan to establish 200 paddy silos across the country, with an estimated cost of approximately BDT 60 billion. The primary objective of this initiative was to enhance the government’s capacity to procure increased quantities of grains directly from farmers, thereby protecting them from potential losses.
Government Procurement Strategy
Percentage of Total Annual Rice Requirement
No Data Found
Since 1991, the government’s procurement strategy has involved acquiring 15 percent of its total annual rice requirements in the form of paddy from growers, while the remaining 85 percent has been purchased as milled rice from millers, as per data from the Food Ministry.
BDT 60 Million
Approximate Total Cost
1 Million Tonnes
Combined Storage Capacity
5000 Tonnes of Paddy
Each Silo's Capacity
30 Silos
Construction commenced
Drying Facilities
To be available at the silos
The proposed paddy silos were designed to have a combined storage capacity of 1 million tonnes, with each individual silo capable of storing 5,000 tonnes of paddy. The construction process for 30 silos had already commenced using fully digitalized processes.
Rice has a shorter shelf life and necessitates pest control measures if not distributed within three months. Additionally, the quality of rice deteriorates if stored in warehouses for extended periods beyond that timeframe. In contrast, paddy can be preserved for up to three years, enabling the procurement of fresh rice through milling when required. Furthermore, the silos would be equipped with drying facilities, allowing farmers to deliver paddy with higher moisture content without the need for immediate processing.
3.5 Million Metric Tonnes
Capacity of the proposed one large silo
2.18 Million Metric Tonnes
Current Storage Capacity of Bangladesh
In July 2023, the government revealed another plan to increase the country’s food grain storage capacity by constructing a silo capable of holding 3.5 million metric tons, thereby increasing the current storage capacity of 2.18 million metric tons. The implementation of this plan would enable the government to ensure fair prices for farmers while purchasing their additional crops, further strengthening the agricultural sector and ensuring food security for the nation.
Introduction of Zinc-enriched Rice Variety
To celebrate Bangladesh’s Golden Jubilee of Independence and the Mujib Centenary, scientists at the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute have released a high-grade, zinc-enriched rice variety named BRRI-100. With the introduction of this new variety, there are now six zinc-rich rice varieties available. This modern, high-yielding rice variety is thin and crisp, with yields ranging from 6.9 to 8.8 tons per hectare. The BRRI-100 variety is also more resistant to diseases and insect attacks compared to conventional varieties.
6 Varities
Currently available
6.9 to 8.8 Tons per Hectare
Yield of zinc-rich rice
Collateral-free Loans
For farmers cultivating Zinc-rich rice
129 KCal Energy
In 100 grams of Zinc-rich rice
To encourage the cultivation of zinc-rich rice, incentives have been introduced. The Bangladesh Agricultural Bank has announced that farmers growing nutritious, zinc-enriched rice can obtain collateral-free loans. According to the USAID Nutrition Database, 100 grams of this rice provide approximately 129 kcal of energy, 78.09 grams of carbohydrates, 7.12 grams of protein, 0.28 grams of fat, 1.30 grams of fibre, 0.07 milligrams of thiamine, 0.015 milligrams of riboflavin, 1.09 milligrams of zinc, 28 milligrams of calcium, 0.80 milligrams of iron, 25 milligrams of magnesium, and other essential nutrients.
Energy Composition of Zinc-rich Rice
In milligrams
No Data Found
8-12 mg
Daily Zinc requirement for adults
3-5 mg
Daily Zinc requirement for children
The new BRRI-100 variety can help meet the country’s zinc needs. It is estimated that 44 percent of children and 57 percent of adult women in Bangladesh suffer from zinc deficiency diseases. Adolescents in their growth phase are particularly susceptible to zinc deficiency. The daily zinc requirement for adults is 8-12 mg, while for children it is 3-5 mg. Consuming zinc-rich BRRI-100 rice can largely meet the body’s zinc requirements, as this variety contains more zinc than other types of rice.
Introduction of Support Systems
123-150 Labour Hours Per Hectare
Labour requirement for transplanting rice seedlings
Transplanting, weeding, harvesting, and threshing are the four most labour-intensive activities in rice farming. Among these, transplanting rice seedlings is the most difficult task, requiring 123-150 labour hours per hectare. The situation is worsened by a growing labour shortage due to increased industrialization and migration.
Since 2022, farmers have had access to a new technology, mechanical transplanting of rice seedlings. Mechanical rice transplanters help reduce labour demands. Their popularity is rising, particularly in areas with a scarce workforce, due to a subsidy program from the government’s Department of Agricultural Extension. The Cereal Systems Initiative for South Asia-Mechanization and Extension Activity (CSISA-MEA), funded by USAID’s Feed the Future initiative, collaborates with leading firms that import these transplanters and regional seed companies that market rice transplanter services.
Incentive for Winter Cultivation
BDT 1.7 Billion
Incentive payments to farmers
2.7 Million Farmers
Beneficiaries of the incentive
2 KG of Seeds
Incentive payments to farmers
1.5 Million Farmers
Beneficiaries of the incentive
To enhance winter rice cultivation, which relies entirely on irrigation pumps, the Bangladesh government distributed BDT 1.7 billion in incentives to farmers in December 2022. Approximately 2.7 million farmers across the country received seeds and fertilisers through this program. To promote hybrid winter rice production, 1.5 million farmers each received 2 kg of seeds, with BDT 820 million allocated for these incentives.
1.2 Million Farmers
Beneficiaries of the incentive
BDT 730 Million
Incentive payments to farmers
Additionally, 1.2 million farmers benefited from an incentive of BDT 730 million aimed at increasing the production of high-yielding rice varieties. Besides these incentives, farmers also received fertiliser and agricultural equipment.
Incentive to Cultivate Boro Paddy
2 kg of Hybrid Seeds
Incentive payments to farmers
1.44 Million Farmers
Beneficiaries of the incentive
950 Thousand Tonnes
Approximate Increase in Rice Production
In October 2023, the government allocated BDT 900 million as incentives to support small and marginal farmers in boosting Boro rice production for the upcoming cultivation season. A government order has been issued regarding this initiative.
Through this incentive, a total of 1.44 million small and marginal farmers will each receive 2 kg of hybrid seeds for cultivation on one bigha of land. This initiative aims to increase hybrid rice cultivation by 192 thousand hectares, resulting in an additional production of 9.50 lakh tonnes of rice.
Adoption of Eco-friendly Technologies
In May 2024, the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change revealed plans to encourage the adoption of eco-friendly technologies in rice cultivation. The primary goal of this initiative is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with rice farming practices.
Adopting such environmentally-friendly technologies offers multiple benefits. Firstly, it helps mitigate the carbon footprint of rice cultivation. Secondly, it optimises the utilisation of resources, potentially opening doors for international carbon crediting opportunities.
The ministry has urged all relevant stakeholders to submit their proposals through the Ministry of Agriculture. These practices can aid in addressing critical challenges such as declining groundwater levels and the pressing need for decarbonization.
Incentive to Cultivate Aush Paddy
5kg Seeds | 10 kg DAP | 10 kg MOP
Incentives provided
940 Thousand Farmers
Beneficiaries of the incentive
The government has decided to allocate BDT 641.5 million in incentives to marginal farmers across the country, with the goal of increasing the cultivation and yield of Aush paddy. This crop is generally sown in March-April and harvested in June-July. In a press statement issued in March 2024, the Ministry of Agriculture announced that this incentive package will provide around 940 thousand farmers with 5 kg of seeds, 10 kg of Di-ammonium Phosphate (DAP), and 10 kg of Muriate of Potash (MOP) fertiliser. These supplies are crucial for growing high-yield paddy on one bigha of land.
The funding for this incentive will come from regular budget allocations under the ministry’s agricultural rehabilitation assistance program.
The Rice Vision 2050
The government of Bangladesh has set an ambitious target to increase rice production by 25 percent by 2050. This initiative aims to meet the needs of the growing population by harnessing the combined efforts of farmers, rice scientists, and agricultural officials. The “Rice Vision for Bangladesh: 2050” outlines this strategy, taking into account projected population growth, the state of cultivable land, annual increases in rice production, and climatic conditions.
Doubling Labour Productivity
By 2050
17 Ecotypes of Rice
Suitable for Bangladesh
To achieve this vision, several key measures will be implemented. These include raising genetic gains in rice varieties, cultivating currently uncultivated lands, mechanising agriculture, and ensuring fair crop prices for farmers. The Development Rice Plan (DRP) is a model concept designed to sustain rice production over the next 30 years. Rather than simply doubling rice production, the DRP focuses on doubling labour productivity and increasing yield per unit of land.
According to researchers, it is possible to increase the country’s rice production to 40.7 million tonnes by 2030, 43.9 million tonnes by 2040, and 46.7 million tonnes by 2050. They have identified 17 ecotypes of rice suitable for different ecosystems within the country, which will help optimise production in various environmental conditions.
148 Kilograms
Annual Per Capita Rice Consumption in 2024
133 Kilograms
Annual Per Capita Rice Consumption in 2050
By 2050, Bangladesh will need to feed an estimated population of 215.4 million people. Currently, the annual per capita consumption of rice is 148 kilograms, which is decreasing by 0.7 percent each year. It is expected that by 2040, the annual consumption will be around 133 kilograms per person. With the current rate of production increase at 0.34 percent per year, rice production in Bangladesh could reach 47.2 million tonnes by 2050. Based on the researchers’ model, the country will need 44.6 million tonnes of rice to meet the population’s demands by that year.
Target of Rice Production
Tonnes Per Hectare Rice Production
No Data Found
Considering environmental challenges, the target is to produce 9.8 tonnes of Boro rice per hectare, 6.2 tonnes per hectare in drought-prone areas, 7.3 tonnes per hectare in flood-affected areas, and 8.1 tonnes per hectare in salinity-affected areas by 2030. These goals reflect a comprehensive approach to addressing the various challenges that impact rice production in Bangladesh.
By implementing these strategies and focusing on sustainable practices, Bangladesh aims to secure its position as a leading rice producer, ensuring food security and contributing to the nation’s development goals.
The Way Forward
- The GoB can promote the use of improved crop management practices among farmers, including proper planting schedules, quality seed utilisation, balanced fertiliser application, and effective weed and pest control. Implementing training programs and awareness campaigns to bridge the yield gap between actual farmers’ fields and the potential yield of various rice varieties can be useful.
- The government should invest in the research and dissemination of rice varieties that can withstand multiple stresses such as drought, flooding, salinity, high temperatures, and cold. The authority should also prioritise breeding varieties that can cope with the impacts of climate change, like high-temperature tolerance for Boro rice and drought tolerance for Aman rice.
- Encouraging the mechanisation of rice production processes to address labour shortages during planting and harvesting seasons is necessary. Facilitating farmers’ access to affordable agricultural machinery, such as threshers, planters, and combine harvesters, through subsidies or financing schemes can ease the situation for rice producers.
- The government should enhance the connection between research institutions and extension services to ensure efficient dissemination of available technologies and improved rice varieties to farmers. Establishing effective communication channels to understand farmers’ needs and tailor research objectives accordingly is necessary.
- Promoting the use of water-saving technologies in rice cultivation, such as alternate wetting and drying (AWD) methods, to mitigate groundwater depletion and encouraging the adoption of rainwater harvesting techniques for supplemental irrigation during critical growth stages can enhance the rice production.
- The GoB should implement measures to curb market manipulation and hoarding practices that drive up rice prices, adversely affecting farmers and consumers. Relevant authorities should come forward to strengthen market monitoring and enforce regulations to ensure fair pricing and distribution of rice.
- The relevant authority can develop a comprehensive policy that focuses on a holistic roadmap, farming system research, rice value-chain, and market systems to achieve the Rice Vision 2050.
About the Author
Umme Farzana Rupa, a former debater, currently excelling as a passionate student at Bangladesh University of Professionals. Engaging communicator and dedicated learner, she continues to thrive in academics, leaving her mark on campus with her inquisitive spirit and determination.