Acknowledgement
I would like to thank those who contributed to the completion of this research. First and foremost, we would like to thank Jatiyea Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University for giving us this learning opportunity that helped us develop valuable life lessons of patience, perseverance, teamwork, resilience, cooperation, and most of all, the endless pursuit of knowledge.
Second, I would like to convey our deep and sincere gratitude towards Mr. Shanjay Kumar Mukherjee for providing invaluable guidance. support, advice, comments, suggestions, and provisions that help in the completion and success of this study. It was a great privilege and honor to work and study under his guidance.
I would also like to express my greatest gratitude to my family for their endless love, prayers, support, and sacrifices. This would not have been possible without their unselfish love and support given to me at all times. A big thanks to Almighty God for giving us the strength, knowledge, ability, and opportunity to undertake this research study. Without His guidance and mercy, we would not be able to accomplish this research and all of our daily endeavors. To God be the Glory!
Lastly, our thanks go to all the people who have supported us in completing the research work directly or indirectly.
Abstract
This study explores the multifaceted impacts of climate change on Boro rice cultivation in the Haor areas of Madan Upazila, a critical aspect of national food security. It delves into the transition from traditional water sources to the reliance on underground water for irrigation, alongside the increased use of chemical fertilizers and insecticides. The research highlights the climate-induced hazards faced by these regions, including flash floods, hail storms, thunderstorms, and droughts, exacerbated by the cultivation of water, fertilizer, and insecticide-sensitive rice varieties introduced in the 1960s.
Through qualitative analysis, including Key Informant Interviews (KII) and Focus Group Discussions (FGD) in Govindashree and Madan unions, the study identifies the primary climate change effects on Boro rice production: flash floods, storms, hail storms, thunderstorms, cool injuries, drought, unexpected weather events, crop diseases, pest attacks, and their consequent impact on crop damage and yield fluctuation. These challenges underscore the vulnerability of Boro rice cultivation to climate change, threatening livelihoods and food security.
The research further assesses local adaptation strategies, revealing a lack of effective measures and a tendency towards migration as a coping mechanism. It proposes recommendations for sustainable cultivation practices, including the adoption of local and short-duration crop varieties, diversification of agriculture, improvements in water management, and the conservation of Haor biodiversity. These strategies aim to enhance resilience against climate change impacts and secure the future of Boro rice cultivation in Bangladesh.
Key Words: Climate Change impact, Haor Region Agriculture, Boro Rice Cultivation
CHAPTER 1
Introduction
This chapter provides an introduction to the research examining Climate Change Impacts on Boro Rice Cultivation and Local Adaptation Practices of Haor Areas of Madan Upazalia. Furthermore, it outlines the key elements of the study, encompassing its purposes and goals, research inquiries, and sub-queries. Addistionally, the chapter delves into the identified issue, the study’s importance, and the existing constraints of limitations.
1.1 Introduction
Boro Rice Cultivation is one of the major livelihood activities for the Haor people and this plays a pivotal role in the total rice production of Bangladesh. The wetlands of the north-eastern zone of Bangladesh are commonly known as Haor. A haor is a saucer-shaped depression, that is used during the dry period (December to mid-May) for agriculture and as a fishery during the wet period (June-November). [1]According to Wikipedia, Boro is one of the main seasons for rice production in Bangladesh, which starts in November and ends in May. However, according to another study, Boro is the dry-season irrigated rice planted from December to early February and harvested between April and June. [2]Boro rice is the major crop in the haor areas and almost all the farmers produce this crop.[3] But Climate Change is impacting this rice cultivation process. Learn to the UN ‘Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. Such shifts can be natural, due to changes in the sun’s activity or large volcanic eruptions.’[4] Haor people are witnessing frequent climate change-related issues and even disasters. These low-lying wetlands are susceptible to the impacts of climate change, including altered precipitation patterns, temperature changes, and extreme weather events. Based on the research findings, temperature rise, erratic rainfall, drought, early flash floods, thunderstorms, Afal or wave action, hailstorms, erosion and siltation and cold snaps are major climate change-induced hazards that community people in Haor areas face very frequently.’[5] Understanding these impacts and exploring effective adaptation strategies is crucial for ensuring food security and sustaining the livelihoods of farmers in the region.
1.2 Research Objectives
Ø To assess the specific effects of climate change on Boro rice cultivation, including yield fluctuations and crop damage.
Ø To examine the adaptation strategies employed by farmers and communities in response to climate-related challenges.
Ø To examine the consequences of Climate Change related disasters and hazards in selected areas.
Ø To propose evidence-based recommendations for sustainable Boro rice farming practices and policies in the face of climate change.
1.3 Research Questions
Ø Which specific climate change stressors, such as changes in temperature, precipitation patterns, or extreme weather events, have the most significant impact on Boro rice cultivation in Haor areas?
Ø Where are the vulnerability hotspots in Madan Upazilla concerning Boro rice cultivation, and what are the contributing factors to vulnerability in those areas?
1.4 Statement of the Problem
According to the Bangladesh Agricultural Statistics of 2020, 12% of rice production in Bangladesh was produced in these haor areas in the Boro season. Boro is one of the main seasons for rice production in Bangladesh, which starts in November and ends in May. Particularly in the Haor area, Boro is the single season for rice production. Despite a single season, 7.5 lakh metric tons of rice were produced in 2020 in Netrakona.
But Climate Change is affecting this production system. It is considerably affecting crop production.[6]Some other climate change impacts in Haor areas are: temperature rise, erratic rainfall, drought, early flash floods, thunderstorms, Afal or wave action, hailstorms, erosion and siltation and cold snaps are major climate change induced hazards which community people in Haor areas face very frequently.[7] The negative impacts due to climate change are decreasing crop production (25%), reduced fisheries (21%), loss of forest ecosystem (16%), loss of bio-diversity (16%), loss of cultivable land (13%), loss of personal belonging (9%).[8] Due to a small flash flood in 2023 approximately 5 Lac metric tons of rice production was reduced.[9] Furthermore ‘The status of biodiversity and the integration of flora and fauna have made the haors one of the most beautiful places in Bangladesh. We always debate on how climate change exacerbates economic inequality, but rarely do we think the opposite -- that inequality itself can be a driver of climate change.’[10]
The Haor areas of Madan Upazila are experiencing noticeable shifts in climate patterns, affecting Boro rice cultivation. Farmers face challenges such as changes in rainfall, heat waves, cold waves, and unpredictable weather events, which pose threats to crop yield and agricultural sustainability. There is a need to investigate the specific impacts of climate change on Boro rice cultivations and identify adaptive measures adopted by farmers in the region.
A sum of research has been conducted earlier on climate change, Haor agriculture, Haor livelihood, and other issues. But particularly on ‘Climate change impact on Boro rice cultivation and locally led adaptation process’ is yet to be studied.
In this study, we are going to examine the real scenario of climate change's impact on Boro rice cultivation and the local adaptation process as well as the resilience-building method in Madan Upazila under the Netrakona district.
CHAPTER 2
Literature Review
This chapter provides an overview of the literature review conducted for the study. It examines and summarizes various studies, comparing and relate them to one another. These studies are interconnected and have played a crucial role in guiding the study’s process, making it highly significant in providing valuable insights.
2.1 Literature Review
Bangladesh is one of the highest climate-vulnerable countries in the world. According to the data from the Global Climate Risk Index 2021,[11] it ranked 7th place. According to the data from the Climate Vulnerability Index 2023 Netrakona District ranked 10th place among Bangladesh.[12] Netrakona is an agricultural occupation-based district. And Climate change is affecting agriculture tremendously. From the report of The Dhaka Tribune (2020), ‘Agriculture in the haor and char region is also remarkably affected by climatic hazards….. 50% of the crops in haor were lost, which consisted mainly of Boro rice.’[13] Agriculture is the main livelihood activity of the haor people. A study conducted by LisghtCastle Analytics Wing (2021) finds that ‘Agriculture is the dominant occupation in the region with most practicing mono-agriculture, which means farmers produce only one type of crop (usually rice).’[14]Md. Kamruzzaman, Md. Taj Uddin (2020) finds that ‘…almost 80% of this area (haor) is covered by Boro rice.’[15]According to another research report ‘Climate change-driven sustainable production system is the prime concern nowadays.’ And ‘Haor farmers of Bangladesh confronted several barriers due to climate extremities.’[16]A study conducted by Azizul M Baten and Kabir M.H learned that ‘ temperature rise, erratic rainfall, drought, early flash floods, thunderstorms, afal or wave action, hailstorm, erosion and siltation and cold snaps are major climate change induced hazards which community people in Haor areas face very frequently.’[17] Findings from the study of Md. Kamruzzaman, Md. Taj Uddin's study shows that ‘Early flood results in flash flood causes huge damage to the standing crop of boro rice while deeply flood gets little crop in the field to damage. In recent years, flash floods hit Sunamganj district and other Haor areas fifteen days earlier than thirty to forty years back. For example, BRII Dhan- -29 takes about 30 days more time to harvest compared to the local boro rice variety. For this reason, farmers get ten to fifteen days less for boro rice cultivation than thirty years ago. This consequence often invites boro rice subject to flash flood.”[18] According to the World Bank report titled ‘Climate Risk Country Profile, Bangladesh’ learned that ‘The yields of the key staple crops in Bangladesh, Aman rice, Boro rice, and wheat have all been shown to suffer significantly from increases in maximum temperatures.’[19] Bangladesh Delta Plan (BDP) 2100 states that ‘Integration of these sectoral, national and global targets and plans into long term coherent strategies taking climate change and future demands into account is the main challenge.’Haor and Flash Flood Areas (16,574 sq km) is the no 3 Hotspot area of its 6 Hotspot areas. The first goal of the 6 goals of BDP for this hotspot area is ‘Ensure safety from floods and climate change-related disasters.’ The main strategy to combat these challenges is to ‘Protect agriculture and vulnerable communities from floods, integrated water/land resource management and management of sustainable ecosystem and biodiversity.’[20]
Haor people are trying to combat this situation which is mainly created by climate change impact. Some studies have been done previously. According to Azizul M Baten and Kabir M.H ‘Among them, most of them take loans from local money lenders (57%) or switch jobs (47.8%). Other noticeable practices take a loan from NGO (27.8%) and Bank (23%), introducing short-duration crop varieties (24.3%), tree plantation (34.5%), seasonal migration (18.3%), homestead vegetable gardening (16.5%), upland house (16.1%) and ‘Amon’ rice cultivation (13.1%). Fishermen and people in other occupations practice four different adaptation strategies.The popular adaptation practices are- alternative income opportunities (54%), tree plantation (33.6%), and distributing ‘khas’ lands among eroded people (17.7%) to cope with the damage of riverbank erosion.’
However, there is inadequate information and data on the relationship between climate-induced disasters and boro rice cultivation. Also, there is no available data and analysis on local adaptation strategies and information. In the proposed study, we are going to investigate the real scenario of climate change impact on Boro rice of Haor areas of Madan Upazila and the locally-led adaptation and mitigation strategies that are helping the Haor people to combat and co-opt these challenges.
CHAPTER 3
Methodology
This chapter presents a comprehensive outline of the research study’s methodology, which includes the utilization of a quantitative approach, defining the study area, determining participants and employing suitable sampling methods. Additionally, it delves into the procedures used for gathering sampling data and conducting data analysis. Finally, ethical considerations about the study are expounded upon in this chapter.
3.1 Study Area
Madan Upazila is under Netrakona District. Madan upazila is bounced by the Atpara, Mohangonj, and Khaliajuri Upazila of Netrakona district, and Itna and Tarail Upazila of Kishorganj district is situated in the south of this upazila. This upazila is located at 24.7167°N 90.9667°E. [21]The total area of Madan Upazila is 225.85 sq k.m. [22] As per the data from KRISHI BATAYON total arable land in Madan Upazila is 21,540 hectares.[23] There are 16 Haors in Madan Upazila (Table 1) and it covers 19701 hector land of the entire upazila. If we look at the map of Madan Upazila (Table 2) it shows that most of the areas are covered with haor areas. According to the official web portal of Madan Upazila, there are 8 unions in Madan. The total population of Madan Upazila is 1,72,602 whereas males are 86,730 and females are 85,872.[24]
Table 1: Haor names of Madan Upazila, Source: Maser Plan of Haor area (2012)
Map 1. Haor of Madan Upazila, Source Master Plan of Haor Area (2012)
3.2 Research Design
This study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to gain a comprehensive understanding of climate change impacts on Boro rice cultivation in haor areas and local-led adaptation strategies.
3.3 Sampling and Data Collection
The total number of participants was 120 from Govindasree Gucchogram, Bodda, Kandapara, Barghoria, Shantipara, Khalasipara from Govindasree Union and Madan Daxmin, Bri Bori Kanda, Maijhpara from Madan Union under Madan Upazilla. Primary data was collected from these study areas including Agriculture and Sinpotic Center Netrakona’s weather reports, the Department of Agriculture and extension office of Madan Upazila and BARCIK through KII (Key Informant Interviews), and FGD using by stratified data collection tool. Previous research reports, and Govt. official reports were the secondary data sources for this study. Data was collected from the first week of January 2024. The questionnaire was prepared to learn specific information about climate change-related issues, challenges, what they do to adapt and mitigate these challenges, and farmers' perceptions of the issues.
CHAPTER 4
Result and Discussion
In this chapter, the researcher presents the overall research derived from the survey, focusing on the findings of “Climate Change Impacts on Boro Rice Cultivation and Local Adaptation Practices of Haor Areas of Madan Upazila.” The participant data was collected, analyzed, and presented descriptively, utilizing relevant statistical methods.
4.1 Result and Discussion
Boro season starts in November and ends in April. This is the dry season in Bangladesh. So, farmers need to collect water to cultivate Boro rice. Before 20/30 years ago farmers collected the water from surface water sources, like Haor Rivers, Cannel, or the Beels[25]. But farmers use underground water for Boro rice cultivation nowadays. In addition, farmers have used chemical fertilizers, and insecticides for the last few decades. Water, fertilizer, and insecticide-sensitive rice varieties were introduced in haor area in the 1960s. Which needs external imports to grow. These varieties produce more paddy which is also essential for national food security. However, this process leads to some internal problems, like soil pollution, environmental pollution, and some socio-economic problems. As these varieties are external input-dependent varieties and newly introduced to haor areas, they face climate-induced hazards very often, like flash floods, hail storms, droughts, and others.
To understand the Climate Change impact on Boro rice of Haor areas, we need to understand the geographical scenario of Haor land for Boro rice cultivation. Let’s have a look at the graph below.
Water from the upper land or rainwater source comes to the Haor land through the rivers namely Surma, Someshwory (Simsang), and Zadu Kata mainly in April or May. This water gets down to the Meghna River from August to October. As Haor land is low-lying land, the water here in the Beels or Nama land till October/November. This is the natural process of water management in the Haor area.
|
Bisra ( The Plain Land) |
|
Kanda (The Middle Land) |
|
Nama (The Lowest Land) |
Graph 1: Geographical Position of Haor land.
We can divide the boro rice farmland of Haor in three portions widely. The first part is the deepest part of a Haor which is commonly known as ‘Nama’. The second part, commonly known as ‘Kanda’, is situated between the Nama and Bisra land. This part of the land is comparatively higher than the Nama. And the third part is Bisra or plain land.
In Haor areas, boro rice cultivation starts from the Nama land. Because this land is highly under threat of flash flood. The seedbed for boro rice farming starts in early November in Bisra land. Which is planted in farmland from the middle of November to end of the January. The harvesting process of boro rice starts in the middle of April and ends in early May. Unfortunately, this period is suitable for seasonal storms in Bangladesh. As a result of the cultivation time and process in the haor area, boro rice cultivation is highly under threat of dangerous circumstances. In addition, Climate change and its impacts create a vulnerable situation for Boro farmland as well as for the farmers.
By analyzing the data collected through KII and FGD in Govindashree and Madan unions and the secondary data, we learned about the climate change effects on Boro Rice. Here are the key effects:
o Flash Flood
Flash floods a major climate change-induced hazards in haor area which occurs almost every year. A combined study by Haque, Moniruzzaman, Hossain, and Alam (2022) found that ‘Flash flood is the most commonly occurring water-related disaster in the haor area of Bangladesh.’[26] Due to a small flash flood in 2023 approximately 5 Lac metric tons of rice production was reduced. Some flash floods created a hazardous situation in the north-eastern zone of Bangladesh in recent times. For instance, the flash flood of 2017 damaged almost 80% of boro rice production, and the 2022 flash flood caused a massive loss of rice production, and it turned into a disaster. A research report shows us that: ‘Overall, 90% to 100% of low and medium-low land regions are inundated by flash/early flash floods, while only 6 to 13% of medium-high and high-land areas are affected’.[27] Flash flood/early flash flood affects the Boro farmland which is a climate change-induced hazard. Let’s look at the trend of flash floods from 1955 to 2022.
Graph 2: Flash Flood trend in Haor area, Source: https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/15/24/16873
Farmers harvest premature paddy which is affected by flash floods. dated 15 May 2022. source: TBS
o Storm
A seasonal storm known as ‘Kalboishakhi’ hit Madan Upazila’s Haor area on April 04, 2021. Which causes a loss of rice production of 340 hectares of Boro land.[28] Learned from the local haor people in FGD and KII that the trend of Kalboishakhi and other storms has increased nowadays. Which is an impact of climate change. Data shows that Kalboishakhi hits almost every year in the study area.
A Boro rice field was harmed due to Kalbaishakhi (2021) in Madan. Source: The Daily Vorer Kagoj
o Hail Storm
Hail storm occurs almost every year in the haor region. Let’s look at the trend: April 16, 2014, April 04, 2015, February 27, 2018, April 01, 2019, February 09, 2021, April 17, 2022, March 15, 2023, March 29, 2023. Some of them were the cause of the huge crop damage of Boro rice production. For instance, the hail storm that hit March 30, 2023, caused the loss of 8,000 farmers in Netrakona.[29] A study conducted by M Baten and Kabir (2022) found that a ‘hailstorm’ is one of the major climate change-induced hazards which occurs ‘frequently’.
o Thunderstorm
100% respondents of in this study have witnessed thunderstorms in the study area. A study that we mentioned earlier found that: ‘In Bangladesh, the number of thunderstorms and days when thunderstorms occurred has been increasing simultaneously for changing climate during recent years. People died by thunderstorms, about 67% when working in agricultural land, haor, ponds, rivers, etc.’ [30] A newspaper report from The Bussiness Standard, published on June 18, 2021, says that: ‘Lightning strikes turn into a deadly disaster in Bangladesh.’[31] Combined research conducted by Mazumder, Sikder, Islam, Haque, and Talukder found that: ‘In Bangladesh, the lightning during a thunderstorm has recently been officially declared as a natural disaster, resulting in numerous fatalities each year, especially in the country’s northeast.’[32] Learned from the Key Informant Interview lightning occurs normally between March to June every year. Which is also the harvesting time of Boro rice. So, the thunderstorm is deadly affecting the farmers of the study area during the harvesting time of Boro rice.
o Cold Injury
Let’s have a look at the table below. In this table, it shows how temperature plays a role in every step of the process:
|
Rice Growth Phases |
Optimum |
Minimum |
Maximum |
|
Seed germination |
20–35 |
10 |
45 |
|
Seedling emergence and establishment |
25–30 |
12–13 |
35 |
|
Root formation |
25–28 |
16 |
35 |
|
Leaf elongation |
31 |
7–12 |
45 |
|
Tiller development |
25–31 |
9–16 |
33 |
|
Flowering/Anthesis |
30–33 |
22 |
35 |
|
Ripening |
20–25 |
12–18 |
30 |
Table 2: Temperature (°C) requirements at different growth phases of rice plants. Source: https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/15/24/16873
Our respondent witnessed 2 cool injuries in last 3 years in the study areas. Which is occuring due to climatic change.
o Hot Injury
According to a report from the Daily Sun, 12,400 hectares of Boro land were affected by heat waves or hot injuries in 2021. Our respondent witnessed hot injuries in 2021, 2022, and 2023.
A Boro rice field affected by hot injury (2023), Source: The Daily Sun
Based on the FGD on KII findings, in the year 2022, and 2023 our respondents witnessed drought in the study area. Sumon Talukder, One of our Key informants
informed us that, due to drought, rice has been sprinkled in that region. The trend of droughts has been increasing in recent years.
o Unexpected weather events
Unexpected weather events like extreme heat or extreme cool are witnessed by the respondents of this study. The people of Govindasree Gucchogram learned that they witnessed extremely cool, extreme heat, early flash floods, heavy rainfall, and the absence of rain for the last four years. Learned by The Daily Star Bangladesh: ‘In a recent report, the World Weather Attribution, an international coalition of scientists, said the April heatwave in Southeast Asia was a once-in-200-year event and without the human-caused climate change it would have been "virtually impossible’.[33]
Graph 3: Extreme weather condition in 2023, Source The Daily Star
o Crop Disease
Solaiman Mia, a youth farmer tells us that, he witnessed Blast, Neck Blast Disease in his Boro rice in Tolar Hoar. One of the officials from DAE also mentioned about this disease. This disease is a result of unstable or inappropriate weather conditions. This disease increased recently, which is an impact of Climatic Change. However, according to the DAE, this disease has occurred from the high-yielding variety BRRI DHAN 28.[34]
A Boro rice field affected by blast disease in Madan. Source: The Financial Express
Brown Grasshper's attack on Boro seedlings has increased alarmingly. One of the officials from DAE has described how and why Brown Grasshopers attack the seedlings. In the seed bad or the Boro farmland: the land is damp and the rice plants are soft. Brown grasshoppers live in moist soils and soft trees are preferred by these insects. Temperature and moisture content cause soil erosion which is the effect of climate change. Learned by a report from The Daily Star: ‘Some are blaming it on 'hostile weather', some on 'dense fog' and others on 'small brown insects'. But whatever the reason is, Boro seedlings are turning yellowish and dying alarmingly in haor areas….’[35]
o Crop Damage and Yield Fluctuation
Due to these effects of Climate Change crop damage and yield fluctuation occurred almost every year in the study area. Which has an impact on national food security. We mentioned the crop damage and yield fluctuations several times in this study. The biggest reason for crop damage is flash floods, storms, and hail storms. Pest attacks, unexpected weather events, drought, etc are mainly responsible for yield fluctuations.
CHAPTER 5
Adaptation Strategies
In this chapter we are going to find out what are the adaptation strategies of local people to combat the climate change. And how they co-opt with the situation of ‘Climate Change Impacts on Boro Rice Cultivation and Local Adaptation Practices of Haor Areas of Madan Upazila.’
5.1 Local Adaptation Strategies
Unfortunately, there are no effective adaptation strategies from the local people. “There was no Bus from Madan to Dhaka in 2003. But now there are at least 10 long-route buses to carry people from Madan,” said Anthropologist Syed Ali Biswas. We can realize a scenario from this statement. Local Haor people are migrating from the study area alarmingly. Let’s look at the adaptation strategies taken by the local people. This table has been prepared from the findings of our respondents.
|
Categories |
Percentage |
|
Taking a loan from a Bank |
23.0 |
|
Taking loans from Local Money Lenders |
57.0 |
|
Taking a loan from an NGO |
27.8 |
|
Migration |
18.3 |
|
Job switching |
47.8 |
|
Submergence/flood-tolerant crop varieties |
10.0 |
|
Introducing short-duration crop varieties |
24.3 |
|
Changing crop calendar |
25.2 |
|
Upland house |
16.1 |
|
Homestead vegetable gardening |
16.5 |
|
Tree plantation |
34.5 |
|
Follow weather forecast |
7.4 |
|
Aman Rice Cultivation |
13.1 |
Table 4: Local adaptation strategies for Climate Change impact on agriculture in Haor
CHAPTER 6
Recommendations
This chapter include the recommendations part. It involves interpreting the results, and addressing research objectives and limitations. Moreover, it offers suggestions for future research directions, emphasizes practical implications, and presents evidence-based actionable recommendations. This chapter underscores the importance of the study and its contributions to the field, aiming to leave a lasting impact on readers and inspiring further exploration in the subject mater.
6.1 Recommendations
o Encourage farmers to diversify their crops beyond mono-cropping of Boro rice. Introducing short-duration and flood-resistant crop varieties can help mitigate the risk of total crop failure due to flash floods and other climatic hazards. This strategy can also include promoting the cultivation of crops that are more resilient to pests and diseases.
o Implement integrated water resource management practices that include both modern and traditional knowledge. The construction of community-managed water storage facilities can provide irrigation during dry spells, reducing the dependence on underground water sources.
o Promote the adoption of high-yielding and climate-resilient crop varieties. The development and dissemination of varieties that are tolerant to submergence, drought, and pests can significantly reduce crop damage due to climatic variations.
o Strengthen weather forecasting and early warning systems to provide timely information to farmers about impending climatic hazards such as flash floods, hailstorms, and thunderstorms. This would enable farmers to take preemptive measures to protect their crops and livelihoods.
o Conduct training programs for farmers on sustainable farming practices, integrated pest management, and the use of organic fertilizers and pesticides. Educating farmers about the impacts of climate change and how to adapt their agricultural practices accordingly is crucial for building resilience.
o Improve farmers' access to affordable credit and insurance products tailored to the needs of smallholder farmers. Microfinance institutions, banks, and government programs should offer loans and insurance schemes that cover losses from climate-induced disasters.
o Invest in infrastructure improvements, such as submersible embankments to protect against flash floods, and improved drainage systems to prevent waterlogging. Roads and bridges resilient to climate impacts will ensure that farmers can transport their produce to markets even during adverse weather conditions.
o Support community-led initiatives that focus on sustainable ecosystem management and biodiversity conservation. Practices such as homestead gardening, tree plantation, and seasonal migration need institutional backing to become more widespread and effective.
o Advocate for policies that support sustainable agriculture and climate resilience. This includes government support for research into climate-resilient crops, subsidies for farmers adopting sustainable practices, and the integration of climate adaptation strategies into national and regional planning.
o Document and disseminate traditional knowledge and practices related to climate adaptation and sustainable agriculture. Local communities have a wealth of knowledge that can offer valuable insights into effective adaptation strategies.
o Local variety, which is appropriate for the Haor ecosystem and friendly with Haor biodiversity should be cultivated in the Haor area. Among them, some of the varieties are deep-water, cold-tolerant, and early to harvest.
o Fair price of rice and other crop should be ensured for Haor farmers.
o Haor eco-friendly trees like Hijal and Karach should be planted and preserved vastly.
o Compensation for the Haor farmers should be ensured. Loss and damage funds should be ensured for the Haor area
CHAPTER 7
Conclusion
7.1 Conclusion
The research on Boro rice cultivation in the Haor areas of Bangladesh has highlighted the significant challenges posed by climate change, including flash floods, storms, hail storms, thunderstorms, cool injuries, droughts, unexpected weather events, crop diseases, pest attacks, the resulting crop damage and yield fluctuation. These challenges threaten local food security and contribute to broader socio-economic and environmental issues. Over the past few decades, the shift from using surface water to groundwater for irrigation, alongside the introduction of water, fertilizer, and insecticide-sensitive rice varieties, has led to increased productivity but at the cost of environmental degradation and increased vulnerability to climate-induced hazards.
The geographical and climatic uniqueness of the Haor region requires specific attention to the patterns of water flow, land use, and the timing of agricultural activities. The increasing frequency and intensity of climate-related hazards underscore the urgent need for adaptive strategies to mitigate the impacts on Boro rice cultivation. However, findings suggest that local adaptation strategies currently need to be improved and reactive rather than proactive, often leading to increased migration and economic strain on farming communities.
Given the critical role of Boro rice in national food security and the livelihoods of the Haor communities, the study recommends the adoption of local varieties suited to the Haor ecosystem, the development of short-duration and advanced varieties to evade flash flood damage, and a diversification of crops to move away from mono-crop culture. Additionally, reforming water management practices, ensuring fair prices for crops, expanding biodiversity conservation efforts, and providing targeted government support can significantly contribute to the resilience of the Haor areas against the backdrop of climate change.
Ultimately, the findings call for an integrated approach involving local communities, government bodies, and international support to develop sustainable, climate-resilient agricultural practices in the Haor areas, ensuring the farming communities' well-being and the ecological integrity of this unique landscape.
7.2 Conflict of Interest
The primary Researcher, verified that there were no conflicts of interest during the research on “Climate Change Impacts on Boro Rice Cultivation and Local Adaptation Practices of Haor Areas of Madan Upazila.” The study was conducted with honesty and impartiality, and the researcher received no financial backing or sponsorship from external sources that could away the research results. The academic guidance from Mr. Shanjay Kumar Mukherjee did not affect the stud’s independence. The research findings and conclusions are entirely derived from the gathered and analyzed data, unaffected by external influences.
References
1. The Community People of Govindasree Gucchogram, Daxmin Madan, Bri Bori Kanda, Kuliahati, and Madan.
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[2]Israt Jahan Shelly, Mana Kano-Nagata, Muhammad Shahidul Haque (Januaray, 2016) Rice Cultivation in Bangladesh: Present Scenario, Problems, and Prospects.
[3]Md. Kamruzzaman, Md, Taj Uddin. (2020) Economic Viability of Boro Rice Production in Haor Ecosystem of Kishoreganj District.
[4]https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/what-is-climate-change
[5] Ahmmed Zulfiqar Rahaman, Gopal Chandra Sarker, Bhuiya Md. Tamim Al Hossain, Sadequr Rahman Bhuiyan, A.S.M Julker Naem. (2021) Assessment of Community-Based Climate Change Risk Focusing Agriculture and Fisheries Sector in Haor Areas of Bangladesh
[6] MM Rahman, KI Sajib, I Alam. (February, 2016) Impacts of Climate Change on the livelihoods of the people in Tanguar Haor, Bangladesh.
[7] Ahmmed Zulfiqar Rahaman, Gopal Chandra Sarker, Bhuiya Md. Tamim Al Hossain, Sadequr Rahman Bhuiyan, A.S.M Julker Naem. (2021) Assessment of Community-Based Climate Change Risk Focusing Agriculture and Fisheries Sector in Haor Areas of Bangladesh
[8] MM Rahman, KI Sajib, I Alam. (February, 2016) Impacts of Climate Change on the livelihoods of the people in Tanguar Haor, Bangladesh.
[9]https://www.songbadprokash.com/country/record-in-wheat-production./51667
[10] Shishir Reza (2020) https://www.dhakatribune.com/opinion/op-ed/215088/op-ed-challenges-in-the-haor-regions
[11] Global Climate Risk Index 2021
[12]https://www.undp.org/sites/g/files/zskgke326/files/202303/Climate%20Vulnerability%20Index%20Book.pdf (Climate Vulnerability Index 2023)
[13] Shishir Reza (2020), https://www.dhakatribune.com/opinion/op-ed/215088/op-ed-challenges-in-the-haor-regions.
[14]LightCastle Analytics Wing (2021) The Need for Robust Development Approaches in the Haor Region
[15] Md. Kamruzzaman, Md. Taj Uddin (2020) ECONOMIC VIABILITY OF BORO RICE PRODUCTION IN HAOR ECOSYSTEM OF KISHOREGANJ DISTRICT
[16]Smita Dash Baishakhy, Mohammad Ashraful Islam, Md. Kamruzzaman (March 2023) Overcoming barriers to adapt rice farming to recurring flash floods in haor wetlands of Bangladesh
[17]Azizul M. Baten Kabir M. H (2022) HAOR AREA PEOPLES’ ADAPTATION STRATEGIES TO CLIMATE CHANGE INDUCED EVENTS IN KISHOREGANJ, BANGLADESH
[18]Md. Kamruzzaman, Md. Taj Uddin (2020) ECONOMIC VIABILITY OF BORO RICE PRODUCTION IN HAOR ECOSYSTEM OF KISHOREGANJ DISTRICT
[19] Climate Risk Country Profile, Bangladesh. World Bank. https://climateknowledgeportal.worldbank.org/sites/default/files/country-profiles/15502-WB_Bangladesh%20Country%20Profile-WEB.pdf
[21]https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Madan_Upazila
[22] https://madan.netrokona.gov.bd/bn/site/page/nuZ4-%E0%A6%8F%E0%A6%95-%E0%A6%A8%E0%A6%9C%E0%A6%B0%E0%A7%87-%E0%A6%AE%E0%A6%A6%E0%A6%A8
[23] http://madan.krishi.gov.bd/
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[25] Comparatively lower land in Haor which constat water in dry season.
[26] M. A. Haque, S. M. Moniruzzaman, M. F. Hossain, M. A. Alam (2022), ASSESSMENT OF CLIMATE CHANGE RISKS AND ADAPTATION OF IMPROVED FARMING PRACTICES IN DEKHAR HAOR OF SUNAMGANJ DISTRICT
[27] Hossain, Biswas, Islam (2023), Cold-Tolerant and Short-Duration Rice (Oryza sativa L.) for Sustainable Food Security of the Flash Flood-Prone Haor Wetlands of Bangladesh
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[30] M. A. Haque, S. M. Moniruzzaman, M. F. Hossain, M. A. Alam (2022), ASSESSMENT OF CLIMATE CHANGE RISKS AND ADAPTATION OF IMPROVED FARMING PRACTICES IN DEKHAR HAOR OF SUNAMGANJ DISTRICT
[31] https://www.tbsnews.net/bangladesh/lightning-strike-turning-deadliest-disaster-bangladesh-experts-262843
[32] Mazumder, Sikder, Islam, Haque, Talukder (2021) Lightning in Northeast Bangladesh: Relation with climatic variables, consequences, and adaptation
[33] https://www.thedailystar.net/environment/climate-change/news/bangladesh-caught-extreme-weather-events-3492101
[34] https://www.thedailystar.net/news/bangladesh/agriculture/news/boro-harvest-blast-disease-sinks-farmers-hopes-haors-3301171
[35] https://www.thedailystar.net/country/news/death-boro-seedlings-worries-farmers-sylhet-haors-2014561
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