Photo: BSS

THAKURGAON, Jan 2, 2026 (BSS) - A total of 350 farmers in Thakurgaon have received free Binadhan-24 rice seeds along with training to boost cultivation and production of the high-yielding variety.

The seed distribution and training programme was inaugurated at 10:30am on Friday by Thakurgaon District Agricultural Extension Deputy Director Majedul Islam. The event, held at the Thakurgaon Sadar Upazila meeting room, was presided over by Officer-in-Charge of the BINA Rangpur Sub-Centre Dr Rafiqul Islam.

Among others present at the programme were BINA Chief Scientific Officer and Deputy Project Director Dr Ashiqur Rahman, BINA Chief Scientific Officer Dr Fahmina Yasmin, Barind Development Authority Thakurgaon Executive Engineer Shafiqul Islam, Thakurgaon Sadar Upazila Agriculture Officer Agriculturist Nasirul Islam and Deputy Project Director of the BINA Rangpur Sub-Centre Agriculturist Mahmudal Hasan.

Speaking at the programme, Mahmudal Hasan said a total of 2.5 tonnes of Binadhan-24 seeds have been distributed among 350 farmers, including 100 small and marginal farmers who also received hands-on training on the day.

He said Binadhan-24 is a short and upright rice variety, measuring about 95 to 97 centimeters in height, which makes it resistant to lodging. The plant is strong and sturdy, while the grains are long and medium-thin. The variety produces an average yield of around 6.5 tonnes per hectare.

He added that Binadhan-24 is a high-yielding rice variety approved for cultivation across the country during the Boro season and is suitable for wider adoption by farmers.

Speakers at the event said encouraging farmers to cultivate Binadhan-24 would help increase rice production and move the country another step closer to achieving food self-sufficiency.