Field Day on 'Dissemination of Improved Water Taro Varieties ' held at BARI
Gazipur City Correspondent
A field day on the dissemination of improved water taro varieties was held at Taratpara village in Gazipur Sadar Upazila under the "Strengthening Tuber Crops Research Project" implemented by the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI).
The event was held on July 16, 2026, with Dr. Md. Mosharraf Hossain Molla, Director (Service and Supply) of BARI, attending as the chief guest.
In his speech, Dr. Molla said that although various types of water taro are cultivated across the country, BARI has so far developed nine improved varieties.
These varieties are free from throat irritation, cook evenly and quickly, and produce higher yields. He also noted that during the rainy season, when the supply of other vegetables declines, taro stolons (loti) and other taro crops play a significant role in meeting the country's vegetable demand.
The special guest, Dr. Md. Shamsul Alam, Chief Scientific Officer of the center, said that taro stolons have become a popular vegetable among people from all walks of life.
He said that taro is a nutritious, iron-rich crop. Taro stolons, in particular, can play an important role in reducing iron deficiency and anemia.
Among others present were Dr. Ferdousi Begum, Senior Scientific Officer of BARI, local farmers, officials from the Department of Agricultural Extension, scientists, and project officials.
During the field day, farmers were introduced to the characteristics of the improved water taro varieties, recommended cultivation practices, and various techniques for increasing production.
