Habiganj, Aug 17 (V7N) — In response to the growing challenge of food security amid shrinking agricultural land, the government is introducing innovative rice varieties developed through advanced agricultural research. At a crop-cutting and agriculture fair held on Saturday at Gopinathpur, Madhabpur Upazila, the Director General of Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (Bri), Dr. Mohammad Khalekuzzaman, highlighted the critical role of farmers in ensuring the success of these improved varieties.
 
“Developing new rice strains may be straightforward,” Dr. Khalekuzzaman stated, “but their success ultimately depends on farmers’ proper management and dedication. With responsible cultivation, both farmers and consumers stand to benefit.” The event showcased BRI Dhan‑98, a promising new rice variety tailored to maximize yield even as cultivable area diminishes.
 
Speakers at the gathering included Dr. Hirendra Nath Barman, Regional Scientific Officer at Habiganj Naguara Rice Research Station; Md. Akhtaruzzaman, Deputy Director of Habiganj Agricultural Extension Office; scientific officer Dr. Afsana Ansari; Upazila Agriculture Officer Sajib Sarkar; Union Parishad Chairman Mahbubur Rahman Sohag; and farmer Badhumia.
 
Local growers who trialed Bri Dhan‑98 during the Aus rice season reported encouraging results. One farmer shared, “Our yields were impressive with BRI Dhan‑98, filling us with renewed optimism.”
 
As agricultural land continues to decline, officials urge responsible adoption of high-yield varieties like Bri Dhan‑98 to boost production and support national food security goals.
 
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