Across Rajshahi’s Barind region, farmers are busy harvesting Boro paddy under intense heat, with cutting and threshing now in full swing. The Department of Agricultural Extension reports that 68,300 hectares have been cultivated this season, targeting 327,544 tons of rice. Early data show an average yield of 4.70 tons per hectare, and about 10 percent of the crop has been harvested so far.

Despite favorable weather and good yields, farmers are struggling with low market prices and rising labor costs. Fine-grain paddy, once a Rajshahi specialty, is selling for Tk 1,100–1,150 per maund, which barely covers wages. Farmers allege that millers and wholesalers are manipulating prices by stockpiling paddy during the peak season. Labor shortages and higher input costs have worsened the situation, leaving many unable to recover their investments.

Officials say the harvest will continue through May and could strengthen local food security if completed successfully. However, farmers urge direct government procurement from local markets to reduce losses and prevent middlemen from exploiting them.