Farmers in Dighinala, Khagrachari, have successfully adopted chemical-free vegetable production methods, setting an example for sustainable farming in the region.
Unlike the common belief that vegetables and crops cannot thrive without toxic pesticides and chemical fertilisers, these farmers have proven otherwise by cultivating vegetables entirely free of harmful chemicals.
Around 40 farmers in the area have used organic methods, including vermi-wash, compost, and self-made plant pesticides, along with water, to grow their vegetables. These vegetables, they say, are not only safe to consume but also taste better.
Many local consumers have already begun purchasing vegetables from them, recognising their superior quality.
The process of chemical-free farming is being taught to other farmers through monthly training sessions at the community learning centre. The “Tritonmul” local development organisation, funded by Helvetas Bangladesh’s ESMUDE project, has been instrumental in providing support.
Thuhina Chakma, a female farmer from the region, shared that she has cultivated cucumbers on her 20-acre land using only organic fertilisers, compost, vermi-wash, and self-made pesticides. She reported a good yield and was able to sell the produce at a higher price compared to conventionally farmed vegetables.
Other farmers, like Remsi Chakma and Shailendra Prabhat Chakma, are also successfully growing vegetables without the use of chemicals, relying instead on organic methods and techniques like netting for natural pest control.
These farmers are hopeful that, if more people adopt such practices, the reliance on harmful pesticides and chemicals will significantly decrease, benefiting both the environment and public health.
Dighinala’s agricultural officer, Md Shahadat Hossain, has praised the project’s nature-based solutions, which include water management and integrated pest management systems, making chemical-free vegetable production viable.
He added that these vegetables have a market value and are attracting consumers, ensuring a profitable future for local farmers.
