Farmers blame seed quality for crop failure in Kulaura

Farmers in Kulaura upazila of Moulvibazar have alleged significant crop losses during the latest Rabi season, blaming substandard seeds supplied through the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) for poor germination and low yields.

During recent visits to Mahtabpur, Ismailpur and Rajanpur villages under Hazipur union, watermelon and tomato fields were found to have underperformed.

In several plots, seeds failed to germinate altogether, while in others, plants grew but produced weak or low-quality yields.

Affected farmers said they incurred heavy financial losses and demanded an investigation into the matter, accountability from responsible authorities, and compensation for damages. They also cited inadequate field-level monitoring and lack of timely agricultural guidance as contributing factors.

Local cultivators, including Imran Ali and Hasan Ahmed, said they used seeds distributed by the Kulaura upazila agriculture office but did not obtain expected results.

Imran Ahmed, 44, a farmer from Manu Bazar, said he cultivated watermelon on 30 acres of land, investing around Tk 20,000.

“I collected seeds from the agriculture office, but the yield was disappointing due to poor seed quality,” he said. “Many seeds failed to germinate after investing in land preparation, fertiliser, and labour. Now I'm worried about recovering financially. I feel helpless.”

Hasan Ahmed, 25, said he planted around 2,000 tomato seedlings on 15 acres of land but yielded poor results. “I have suffered a major financial loss,” he said.

Helal Khan, assistant professor of agriculture at Langla Modern Degree College, said quality seeds are essential for ensuring good harvests.

“The soil in this area is fertile, and the farmers are experienced. The yield has been low due to the lack of good seeds,” he said.

Contacted, Kulaura Upazila Agriculture Officer Md Jasim Uddin said the matter is under review. He noted that seeds are generally procured from reputed companies after proper inspection.

He added that Dragon King watermelon seeds from Supreme Seed and Ziko-10 tomato seeds from United Seed were distributed, and the issue has been reported to the relevant companies.

The agriculture officer also suggested that late planting and adverse weather conditions, including hailstorms, may have contributed to the poor yields.

Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Md Mohiuddin said some farmers have already submitted complaints.

“We have instructed the agriculture office to take necessary steps, including considering compensation for affected farmers. Measures will be taken to ensure better seed quality in future distributions,” he said.