Disruptions in distribution of fertiliser and diesel have raised fears that the harvest of Boro paddy in April-May next year may get seriously hampered. The government has been unable to ensure transportation safety, and Boro farmers have been running short of diesel for irrigation equipment.

The government must improve conditions for farmers by taking sensible steps to overcome the detrimental effects on the production of Boro rice being caused by hartals and blockades.

To make matters worse, some sellers have taken advantage of this situation by hoarding fertiliser and seeking to sell it to farmers at an unnaturally high price.

Boro rice accounts for 60% of the country’s demand for rice and is clearly our most important staple crop. December is a crucial time in Boro production, as this is when farmers apply fertiliser to accelerate growth ahead of the spring harvest. Stocks of fertiliser are reported to be high, so it is the hold up to distribution which is causing the most concern.

If the present situation does not improve, there will be a threat of shortages and more rice may need to be imported. Everyone will be hurt in the pocket, especially the Boro farmers and the mass of people who depend on affordable rice as their main food.

The government needs to be pro-active in addressing the risks which are apparent and in helping farmers. All political parties need to step back from the types of confrontation and unrest which are directly threatening the country’s main food producers in this way.

Source - http://www.dhakatribune.com/