Sachchida Nanda Dey, Assasuni (Satkhira) 

Farmers in Assasuni upazila of Satkhira are hopeful about a potential bumper Boro paddy harvest this season, but looming threats of storms and unseasonal rain have cast a shadow of uncertainty over their optimism.

 Vast stretches of green paddy fields now cover the region, with many plants already bearing grain, and in some areas, the paddy has even started ripening. Reports indicate that harvesting has begun in a few places.However, persistent overcast skies and the fear of sudden storms or hail have left farmers deeply worried.

 With mature crops in the field, any adverse weather could severely damage the yield, turning hope into despair.Sources say that this season saw an increase in the amount of cultivated land, including previously fallow fields.

 The upazila administration and agriculture department have played a key role in this growth by distributing free seeds, fertilizers, and other inputs to marginal and sharecropping farmers. As a result, many low-income families engaged in farming, boosting overall cultivation.To maximize yield, the agriculture department organized various awareness programs including field days, advising farmers on modern cultivation methods and ways to manage pest and disease outbreaks.

 Special emphasis has been given to caring for the crop during the critical panicle initiation and grain-filling stages.Farmers from areas such as Sriula, Khajra, Kulia, and Boro Dhol said, “Our fields are full of healthy panicle-bearing paddy. In just a few weeks, we’ll begin harvesting. We’re full of hope, but also fear—every day the sky is cloudy, and we worry a sudden storm could destroy everything.”The Assasuni Upazila Agriculture Officer stated, “From planting to harvesting, we’ve been providing continuous support and advice to our farmers. 

The yield looks promising this year, but uncertainties remain until the crops are safely harvested.”Local observers believe that if the weather remains favorable, Assasuni’s farmers will indeed witness a plentiful harvest filling their granaries.