Farmers urged to increase organic fertiliser use in Chuadanga

Bashundhara Shuvosangho has urged farmers to increase the use of organic fertilizers and avoid excessive chemical fertilisers and pesticides to protect soil fertility, ensure safe food production and promote sustainable agriculture.

The call was made at a farmers' advisory meeting organised by the organization's Damurhuda Upazila branch at Chitla Desh Brickfield in Chuadanga on Saturday. About 50 farmers attended the meeting, which began at 10am.

Saiful Islam, an Upazila Sub-Assistant Agriculture Officer, attended as the chief guest and resource person. The meeting was chaired by Haji Abdul Kadir, vice-president of the Shuvosangho’s Damurhuda upazila branch.

Saiful Islam said excessive use of chemical fertilizers could disrupt soil nutrient balance, reduce beneficial microbial activity and contribute to water pollution. Unregulated pesticide use could also leave harmful residues in crops, posing risks to human health and killing beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies.

He advised farmers to use chemical fertilizers in balanced quantities based on soil conditions and crop requirements. He also encouraged the use of cow dung, compost and vermicompost to improve soil structure, organic matter content and water retention.

To reduce dependence on pesticides, Islam recommended Integrated Pest Management (IPM), including pheromone traps, light traps, biological pest control and the conservation of beneficial insects. Where pesticides are necessary, farmers should use approved products at prescribed doses and observe the recommended waiting period before harvesting.

Other speakers stressed that safe food production is closely linked to public health and environmental protection, calling for greater cooperation among farmers, agricultural officials and social organizations to promote sustainable farming.

The meeting was attended by Habibur Rahman, the organization's upazila chief adviser and Kaler Kantho correspondent in Damurhuda; General Secretary Maksudur Rahman Ratan; Joint General Secretary Lecturer Abul Kalam Azad; Organizing Secretary Abubakar Master; Literature Affairs Secretary Abdul Alim; member Mohammad Ali; and other members, local farmers and well-wishers.

Rahman conducted the meeting. Bashundhara Shuvosangho said it would continue organizing initiatives to raise farmers' awareness and encourage safer agricultural practices.