Farmers are benefiting from diversified farming practices in Panchagarh as intercropping is gaining popularity day by day across the district. Land that once produced only a single crop per season is now being utilized to cultivate multiple crops, allowing farmers to boost productivity and income.
Local farmers have successfully started cultivating potatoes alongside maize in the same fields. By using the vacant spaces between maize plants, they are able to grow potatoes without significant additional costs while ensuring higher overall yields.
Officials from the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) said that the method helps farmers make the most efficient use of their land. In addition to potatoes, companion crops such as leafy vegetables, jute and sweet pumpkin are also being cultivated in maize fields during the current season.
Abdul Matin, Deputy Director of the agricultural extension office, said the practice is expected to expand further in the coming years. According to him, agricultural research institutions are working on new innovations to increase farmers’ income and help meet the country’s growing food demand. While intercropping in sugarcane fields has long been practiced, cultivating potatoes, vegetables, jute and sweet pumpkin alongside maize is opening new possibilities for farmers.
Ahmad Ali, a farmer from Shaltiapara village in Panchagarh Sadar upazila, said the opportunity to produce multiple crops with almost the same cost has encouraged farmers in the area. He added that many farmers from neighboring villages are now interested in adopting the method.
Safdar Hossain, a farmer from Darjipara village in Tetulia upazila, said agricultural land is gradually shrinking as it is divided among family members, while the cost of living continues to rise. In such circumstances, diversified crop production has offered new hope for farmers. Since both maize and potatoes are profitable crops, the new technique is helping them improve their livelihoods.
Mariam, a female farmer from Singpara village in Sadar upazila, said cultivating two crops at the same time has also increased employment opportunities for agricultural laborers. Day laborers are now getting more work compared to previous seasons.
Dr Md Anwar Hossain, Director of the LSTD Project at the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute, said the successful cultivation of potatoes in maize fields has not only encouraged farmers but also created opportunities for additional income from the same piece of land. Agricultural experts believe that such diversified farming practices could add a new dimension to the agricultural economy.
