Abstract
This study sets out the multifaceted aspects of crop farming among rural farmers in
Bangladesh, focusing on ecological and agronomic dimensions. Data from 400
randomly selected farmers across five regions were analyzed to assess socioeconomic
characteristics, farming methods, environmental challenges, and coping strategies.
Findings indicate that most farmers are middle-aged (average age 51), married, and
male (97.5%). Education levels are low, with only 2.75% being graduates and 19.75%
having no formal schooling. Family sizes average seven members, exceeding national
norms. Most households (78.5%) reside in moderate conditions with brick and tin
dwellings. Annual incomes mostly vary between 100,000 and 260,000 BDT, and 92%
of respondents remain active in agriculture, supported by an average of 27.72 years of
experience. Only 22.5% of farmers are part of cooperatives, 6% have received
agricultural training, and 60% participate in agricultural programs. Credit access
remains a challenge, with 66% relying on informal sources. Technology adoption is
moderate; 53% of farmers use two technologies. Farmers identified weather and
production-related risks, such as climate hazards and pest outbreaks, as significant
threats. Among 55 factors assessed, 20 were classified as extreme and severe risks,
while others were deemed moderate to least. Major agronomic challenges include
inadequate training, knowledge gaps, and financial constraints. Farmers attributed
agricultural unpredictability to low prices and inadequate policies. To mitigate risks,
they use crop diversification, improved irrigation, and community-based disaster
management. Despite these efforts, 53% are risk-averse, and only 11.3% take
significant risks. Predominant crops include Boro rice, wheat, and chili, reflecting
seasonal and regional variability. Most decisions are intuition-driven, with limited
expert input or advanced technology use. The findings emphasize the need for targeted
interventions in education, technology, credit access, climate resilience, and disaster
management to ensure sustainable agricultural growth in Bangladesh.
Keywords: Agriculture in Bangladesh; Farming Challenges; Rural Livelihoods;
Agricultural Productivity; Technological Adoption.
