Local rice varieties in climate vulnerable areas of Bangladesh: prospects and barriers

Abstract

Bangladesh is famous for its rice heritage and wide diversity. This rice diversity is declining rapidly since the introduction of modern varieties. Yet about one fifth of rice growing areas of the country is cultivated by local varieties. Statistics reveal that in 2011-2012 fiscal years, contribution of local varieties to country's total rice production was about nine percent. It proves that local rice varieties are contributing towards cereal self-sufficiency as well as food security of the country. Moreover, some studies suggest that local rice varieties offer solutions to numerous climate change impacts. However, the importance of local rice varieties has not been assessed holistically from the perspective of sustainable agriculture including climate readiness. Based on expert interview, focus group discussion with community people and document analysis, this qualitative study aims to explore the prospects and barriers of promoting local rice variety for sustainable as well as climate resilient agriculture. It has been found from the analysis that local varieties are now cultivated only in those areas where the farmers have no other varietal options. Farmers also cultivate local varieties to avoid loss and it requires lower level of investment. However, negligible research, policy and extension supports are available for farmers to use local rice variety. The study, which has implications for researchers and practitioners promoting sustainable agriculture, argues that more areas should be brought under rice if desired varieties of local rice seeds can be ensured.