By Rangamati Correspondent

As in previous years, the indigenous communities across the three hill districts of Rangamati, Bandarban, and Khagrachari have once again immersed themselves in the traditional harvest of jhum rice. The golden paddy fields that blanket the hills signal that the peak season for jhum harvesting has arrived. Farmers, elated by an excellent yield this year, credit timely rainfall and favourable weather for their success.

Across the hills, the aroma of freshly harvested rice now fills every household, with many already celebrating the Nabanna, a traditional festival marking the arrival of new crops.

According to the Department of Agricultural Extension in Rangamati, over 42,500 jhum farmers are active across the three districts. Every year, around 13,500 hectares of sloped hill land are cultivated using this age-old method.

Following six months of arduous labour, jhum farmers are now busy harvesting rice and other crops throughout the Bengali months of Bhadra and Ashwin (roughly August to October). There’s no time to look back as every moment counts during this critical period.

Jhum cultivation typically begins in early Chaitra (March), with the clearing of forest areas. Later in the month, dried vegetation is burned. In Baishakh (April), seeds of rice are sown along with other crops like cotton, sesame, millet, maize, cucumber, ridge gourd, beans, pumpkins, chillies, aubergines, barley, and more.

Traditional rice varieties cultivated by jhum farmers include — Kabork, Gelong, Amei, Kamarang, Bhuppoi, Sonali, Rengui, Dhup Pattiki, Ranga Pattiki, Binni, Rangi, Merung, Choroi, and Madhumalati, among others.

The districts of Rangamati and Bandarban see the most extensive jhum farming. This method remains an integral part of life and livelihood for the indigenous communities, including the Chakma, Marma, Tanchangya, Pangkhoa, Bawm, Mro, Khiyang, and Lusai — who have practised jhum cultivation for generations.

This year, traditional rituals like ‘Dhan Fang’ — which involves the ceremonial slaughtering of pigs and chickens — have already begun in many areas as farmers start harvesting.

During a recent visit to Sita Pahar in Kaptai Upazila, Rangamati, it was observed that around 200 families engaged in jhum farming this year. One could see golden fields stretching across the hills.

Farmer Chaisu Marma shared that timely rain and favourable conditions led to a successful harvest. After sowing 36 kg of rice, he expects to yield around 2,700 kg (approximately 70 maunds). Last year, from 24 kg of seed, he harvested 45 maunds.

Other farmers — Ukkyam Marma, Angthui Marma, and Usaimong Marma — echoed similar sentiments, stating yields are better than the previous year.

In Borohorina Union of Barkal Upazila, around 300 families practised jhum cultivation. One farmer, Sumoti Chakma, sowed 70 kg of rice and expects to harvest about 190 maunds by the end of Ashwin.

Another farmer, Sujit Bikash Chakma, hopes to exceed 200 maunds from his 80 kg sowing.

Local Union Chairman Neelamoy Chakma expressed concern that farmers receive no government support. He believes that with agricultural tools, incentives, and technical assistance, yields could be significantly improved.

As per official records, 13,486 hectares were cultivated this year — 5,100 in Rangamati, 7,336 in Bandarban, and 1,150 in Khagrachari. Only 22 hectares were damaged by excessive rain. The average yield is 2.25 metric tonnes per hectare. However, unofficial figures suggest both the area and the yield might be higher.

Nasim Haidar, Additional Director of the Rangamati Agriculture Department, emphasised the need for research to modernise jhum cultivation and improve traditional rice varieties, as well as to assess the nutritional value of indigenous crops. 

Published Date: September 26, 2025