In terms of cultivation and production, Thakurgaon is now the country's third-largest maize-producing district. It was once a step ahead in rice and wheat farming, but over the past few years maize cultivation has grown steadily because it costs less and pays more. With other crops earning less, maize has become a popular alternative.

High-yielding varieties, modern farming methods and favourable weather give the region bumper maize harvests. Last year maize was grown on 38,010 hectares; this year it has been grown on about 40,495 hectares, with expected production of 4 lakh 75 thousand 800 tonnes. Cultivation has risen more than fivefold in a few years.

According to the agriculture office, maize was grown on 21,564 hectares in the 2021-22 financial year, 33,060 hectares in 2022-23 and 38,010 hectares in 2023-24. Agriculture officials say 40,495 hectares of maize has been grown in the district in the current 2024-25 financial year.

Along with good yields, Thakurgaon has earned a name for maize, taking third place among the country's top producers. Farmers say maize is now spreading on land that used to grow wheat, because of various hardships and difficulties with wheat.

Md Habib, a farmer in Gareya union of Sadar upazila, said: "I have seven bighas of land. Until two years ago I grew wheat on it, but I had a lot of trouble getting wheat seed and fertiliser. So on the advice of a neighbour I started growing maize. Last year I got a good yield and a good price, and I hope to get a good price this time too."

A Rahman, a farmer in the Chilarang area, said: "Maize has some diseases. One of them is insects that attack and eat the leaves, which is very harmful, so insecticide has to be applied when the crop is a month old. With irrigation and enough fertiliser the yield is good. Maize is more profitable than other crops, which is why I grow it."

Sirajul Islam, deputy director of the district Department of Agricultural Extension, said: "Maize cultivation is increasing day by day, and the crop has become popular with farmers in the district. We are also giving all-round support, including incentives."

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