Faruk Hossain

Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI) has established an innovative ‘rice garden’ in the agricultural fields of Dinajpur, transforming it into a practical learning hub for local farmers. Located in the Kaugaon area of Sadar Upazila, the demonstration farm aims to familiarize farmers with modern, high-yielding rice varieties.

A total of 54 BRRI-developed rice varieties suitable for the 2025–26 Boro season have been planted side by side. This arrangement allows farmers to directly compare key characteristics such as plant growth, height, panicle structure, and disease resistance. The initiative is designed to simplify farmers’ decision-making when selecting the most suitable variety for cultivation.

The project is being implemented under the Location-Based Rice Variety and Technology Innovation and Existing Laboratory Development (LSTD) program, which includes the establishment of six new regional offices. Project Director Dr Md Anwar Hossain described the rice garden as a ‘living research field,’ noting that similar initiatives have been introduced in around 15 technology villages across the country.

He added that BRRI has released 61 rice varieties for the Boro season to date, of which 54 varieties suited to Dinajpur’s soil and climate are being showcased in this garden.

The initiative, the first of its kind in the region, has attracted hundreds of farmers and visitors daily. Local farmer Md Mominul Islam said the experience helped him identify the most profitable rice variety for the next Boro season.

Syed Zahid Hasan, Scientific Officer at BRRI’s Dinajpur Regional Office, said the exhibition is helping farmers learn not only about different rice varieties but also about modern cultivation techniques. Following the success of this initiative, BRRI plans to establish similar rice gardens in technology villages during the upcoming Aush and Aman seasons.

Agriculture experts believe this initiative will play a crucial role in increasing rice production and strengthening food security in northern Bangladesh by bringing research directly to farmers’ fields.

Published Date: May 5, 2026