Paddy seed production of the Ghoraghat Krishak Mohila Cooperative (Bangladesh)

Описание: Bangladesh is one of the world’s largest consumers of rice, yet access to quality rice seeds remains a major challenge. For most farmers, the lack of quality seeds leads to low yields, rising debt, and less food for their families.

The Ghoraghat Krishak Mohila Samabaya Samity Limited is a cooperative led by women farmers that is working to address this challenge. In 2023, the cooperative developed a business plan to produce certified paddy seeds and received USD 28,260 in support from the APFP-FO4A program for paddy seed production.

In the past, many members of the cooperative relied on high-interest loans to finance their farming activities. Through this project, they have been able to break away from that cycle. Members now receive free mother seeds from the cooperative, in partnership with the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute.

To protect soil health and reduce costs, members use vermicompost instead of chemical fertilizers. After harvest, the cooperative purchases paddy from its producer members at fair prices for seed production. It also closely monitors the entire farming cycle to ensure seed quality, with oversight from the Bangladesh Seed Certification Agency.

The processed seeds are packaged and sold under the brand name “Fasal Seeds,” marking the emergence of a locally produced, women-led seed brand. The project also facilitated market linkages, connecting the cooperative directly with buyers.

The Asia-Pacific Farmers’ Program (APFP) – Farmers’ Organizations for Asia (FO4A) is implemented by the Asian Farmers’ Association for Sustainable Rural Development (AFA) and La Via Campesina (LVC), with funding from the European Union (EU) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). The program aims to strengthen the capacities of farmers’ organizations to provide economic services, advocate for enabling policies, and promote sustainable livelihoods for small-scale family farmers across Asia. APFP-FO4A is implemented in Bangladesh by the COAST Foundation.