Sonar Dana, the organic fertiliser produced by Keru & Company Limited in Darshana, has become widely popular among farmers. Demand is growing day by day because it improves soil fertility and raises crop yields. Farmers say that using Sonar Dana, their yields of rice, sugarcane, papaya, various vegetables, betel leaf and flowers have risen well above what they were.

According to the company, production of the organic fertiliser Sonar Dana began at the Darshana Keru sugar mill in 2012, using pressmud. From the start it has helped improve soil quality and had a positive effect on the output of various crops.

Zakir Hossain, production and plant manager of the Keru sugar mill, said: "In the 2024-2025 fiscal year we produced 2,19.995 tonnes of organic fertiliser and made a profit of about Tk 78 lakh. In the same fiscal year a total of 1,630 tonnes was produced. Our aim is to increase production in line with demand and ensure benefits for farmers. At present fertiliser is being produced at an average rate of 136 tonnes a month." (The two production figures are given as in the original report.)

Rabbik Hasan, the company's managing director (MD), said: "Using Sonar Dana, production of rice, sugarcane, papaya, various vegetables and flowers is increasing. This organic fertiliser has gradually become popular beyond Darshana among farmers in various districts. We want to raise production in line with demand and reduce dependence on chemical fertiliser. The initiative will also help reduce unemployment in the area."

Local farmer Md Habibur Rahman said: "Using Sonar Dana, rice and vegetable yields are much higher than before. It has a direct effect on our income."

Keru & Company Limited is now raising output to meet demand for organic fertiliser in various districts. Agricultural experts believe organic fertilisers like this can play an important role in sustainable farming and in cutting chemical fertiliser use.

Source: Jagonews24. First published in Bengali on The Agro News.