Bangladesh farmers could increase their crop production by at least 25 percent by using modern technology in a farming method called precision agriculture. A Dutch soil scientist recently shared this exciting possibility, explaining how smart farming techniques can help the country grow more food while using fewer resources. Professor Jetse Stoorvogel from the Netherlands visited Bangladesh in July and found that farmers here have huge potential to improve their harvests. He discovered that rice yields in Bangladesh are currently only reaching about half of what could be possible. While most farmers produce 4 to 5 tonnes per hectare, the land could actually produce up to 10 tonnes with the right methods. Precision agriculture works by collecting information about different parts of farm fields. Farmers can learn about soil conditions, weather patterns, and crop health, then use this knowledge to make better decisions about when and where to apply fertilizers, water, and other resources. This approach helps farmers use their materials more efficiently while reducing waste and environmental damage. The technology needed for precision farming has become much more affordable over the years. Twenty-five years ago, a soil test cost around $200, but today farmers can buy handheld sensors for about $100. Mobile phone apps now provide real-time advice that can help even small farms make better growing decisions. These tools are already helping farmers in countries like Kenya and India achieve better results. One major problem the scientist noticed in Bangladesh is that many farmers use too much fertilizer. Some apply more than 300 kilograms per hectare even when their crops do not need that much. With proper soil testing and guidance, farmers could safely reduce fertilizer use by 10 to 25 percent. This would save money and help protect the environment while still maintaining good crop yields. Bangladesh faces some unique challenges in adopting precision farming. Most farms are small, and many farmers rent their land rather than owning it. This can make it harder for them to invest in new technologies or long-term soil improvements. Climate change also creates additional difficulties for farmers trying to plan their growing seasons. The professor believes private companies could help solve these problems by offering complete packages of services. Instead of farmers having to buy everything separately, companies could provide soil testing, advice, seeds, fertilizers, and equipment all together. This approach has worked well in other countries like Uganda and Vietnam. Success in precision farming will require cooperation between many different groups. Government extension officers, farmers, researchers, and private companies all need to work together to create a strong support system. With the right combination of technology, training, and teamwork, Bangladesh could significantly increase food production while protecting natural resources for future generations.
