BRRI Begins 24/7 Helpline for Farmers Facing Rice Cultivation Challenges
In a bid to address the persistent challenges faced by rice farmers, the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI) has launched a 24/7 helpline initiative. Farmers across the country can now dial 09644300300 at any time to receive expert advice on weather forecasts, pest and disease management, weed control, fertilizer application, and rice variety selection.
The service was officially inaugurated on Wednesday, June 25, at a day-long workshop held at BRRI's headquarters in Gazipur. BRRI Director General Dr. Mohammad Khalequzzaman inaugurated the helpline service and highlighted its significance for the country’s agriculture.
Dr. Khalequzzaman stated, “Rice cultivation is not only the livelihood of our farmers, but the foundation of our national food security. However, farmers face numerous challenges in every phase of production—sudden weather changes, pest outbreaks, diseases, and proper fertilizer use. Timely advice is critical to overcoming these hurdles. Through BRRI’s 24/7 helpline, we aim to bring expert guidance directly to farmers' doorsteps.”
He further explained that the helpline, operated under the supervision of BRRI’s Agromet Lab in Gazipur, allows farmers to receive daily weather updates and agronomic advice tailored to their specific needs. “To transition into a scientifically driven, technology-enabled era of agriculture, farmers must have access to timely information and services,” he said. “Our Agromet Lab is working as an effective platform toward that goal.”
In addition to the helpline, Dr. Khalequzzaman shared BRRI’s plan to eventually provide weather-based cultivation tips via mobile apps and SMS services. Emphasizing collaboration, he urged the support of media outlets, agricultural extension departments, and local administrations to reach more farmers nationwide. “We alone cannot meet every need of every farmer. But if the media disseminates this service information widely, it can benefit rice growers across the country,” he said. “Sustainable, tech-driven agriculture is only possible when we all work together.”
BRRI officials added that the helpline will equip farmers with proactive strategies against fertilizer misuse, irrigation issues, weed management, and weather-related risks. Experienced scientists will analyze each query and provide immediate, practical solutions based on the nature of the problem.
The workshop was chaired by BRRI Research Director Dr. Md. Rafiqul Islam, with the keynote paper presented by Agromet Lab Coordinator Dr. A. B. M. Zahid Hossain. BRRI scientists, researchers, and officials from various departments were also present at the event.
