For the first time in Bochaganj Upazila of Dinajpur, experimental cultivation of Vietnam-variety Black Rice has begun, raising new prospects for local agriculture.
The initiative was undertaken independently by Rakibul Haq, a young entrepreneur from Dighari village under No 1 Nafanagar Union. The prospect of good yields with low maintenance and operational costs has attracted interest from neighbouring farmers.
Rakibul became interested in Black Rice after learning about it online. He initially bought one kilogramme of the rice for Tk550 to assess its viability and taste. He later purchased two kilogrammes of seeds for Tk1,150 and raised seedlings in a seedbed.
After failing to obtain permission to cultivate the crop on ancestral land, he leased 33 decimals of land for Tk24,000. He transplanted the seedlings on 9 July, with harvesting scheduled between 10 and 12 October.
According to Rakibul, Black Rice requires no additional fertiliser, irrigation or special care compared with conventional paddy varieties. He expects to harvest 18 to 20 maunds of rice from the plot.
With the current market price at around Tk400 per kilogramme, the expected harvest could generate sales of around Tk3,20,000 before other production expenses are deducted.
According to Agriculture Department, Black Rice is rich in antioxidants, anthocyanins, fibre and iron. Its high nutritional value has led to it being described globally as a “superfood”. Various studies highlight its benefits in preventing diabetes, neurological diseases and ageing. The crop also attracts connoisseurs and Chinese restaurants.
Before the harvest, local residents have been visiting the field to inspect the crop, while several have contacted Rakibul to secure seeds in advance.
Local farmers including Shambhu Roy and Jewel have also expressed interest in cultivating Black Rice in the coming season after seeing the healthy crop and attractive plant stalks.
