Researchers at Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University (HSTU) have achieved promising results in cultivating eggplant and okra during the monsoon season without chemical pesticides or fungicides, using beneficial endophytic bacteria.
The research was led by Md Azizul Haque of the university’s Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, with support from BRAC Microfinance.
According to the research team, the same method had previously achieved significant success in potato cultivation. Applying the bacteria continuously for four consecutive years on the same agricultural land increased essential soil nutrients, including nitrogen and phosphorus, raising prospects for significantly reducing the use of conventional urea and triple superphosphate (TSP) fertilisers.
Field trials showed that despite heavy monsoon rainfall and high soil moisture, eggplants and okra grown on low-lying land remained free from viral diseases, wilting and pest attacks.
As part of the research, the team has also developed a specialised machine suitable for local production of liquid biofertiliser.
Experts said the technology, based on the concept of ‘Soil Microbiome Engineering’, could play a vital role in ensuring safe food production by reducing the use of harmful agricultural chemicals and dependence on imports.
To extend the benefits of the innovation to farmers across the country, the researchers have proposed a national pilot programme in coordination with the Ministry of Agriculture, Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI), Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC) and the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE).
