Farmers in Rajshahi’s Godagari upazila are at the forefront of Bangladesh’s agricultural transformation, harnessing digital tools and modern machinery to cut costs, boost yields, and adapt to climate challenges. From mobile apps to mechanized harvesters, innovation is redefining the region’s farming economy.
Two young entrepreneurs, Sarwar Rashid and Nurullah Sadekin Sourav, leased 12 bighas of land in Iswaripur village, where they cultivate high-value fruits and crops using mechanized farming methods and digital monitoring. “We’ve integrated mechanization and digitalization into farming to increase productivity and profitability by applying our IT knowledge and experience,” Sarwar told The Voice, adding that they work closely with local agriculture officers. Their venture already supplies grafted seedlings of watermelon, cauliflower, and cabbage to neighboring farms.
Local farmers are also embracing technology. Shafiqul Islam, 45, from Nazirpur village, has become a digital farming entrepreneur, operating equipment like reapers, binders, threshers, and seed planters. He coordinates with about 250 farmers through a Facebook Messenger group, providing real-time agricultural services on demand. Similarly, Dewpara farmer Anisuzzaman Dollar, 48, relies on Union Parishad’s Farmers’ Information and Advice Center (FIAC) for weather updates, pest control, and irrigation advice delivered via Messenger.
For Monirul Islam, 40, of Godagari, digital farming has been a financial breakthrough. Using the Khamari App to regulate fertilizer use, he saved Tk 50,000 per season while protecting soil health and improving yields. “I cultivate paddy, wheat, maize, and mustard on 16 bighas. With digital tools, I’m earning an additional Tk 60,000 each season,” he said.
Agricultural experts confirm that tools like bed planting systems, solar-powered drip irrigation, and ICT-driven advice are revolutionizing farming practices. Farmers now receive training, machinery access, and technical support directly at their doorsteps. Sub-Assistant Agriculture Officer Atanu Sarker explained that FIAC centers distribute seed samples, leaflets, irrigation equipment, and even host Zoom and Skype-based training sessions.
Godagari Upazila Agriculture Officer Mariam Ahmed said digital platforms provide information on seed quality, land fertility, crop zoning, and yield projections. “The Khamari App has opened a new horizon in digital agriculture. It’s helping farmers diversify crops and make better decisions,” she said.
Experts from the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) stress that digitalization is not just improving productivity but also building resilience against climate change. Additional DAE Director Dr Azizur Rahman said: “Sustainable use of modern technologies is essential to make the country self-reliant in food and address climate challenges.”
With cost-effective techniques spreading rapidly, Rajshahi’s rural landscape is turning into a testing ground for Bangladesh’s digital agricultural revolution, signaling how innovation and grassroots entrepreneurship could reshape the nation’s food security future.
