Dhaner Helpline: Farmers can now get rice cultivation-related services for 24/7

The Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI) has launched a 24/7 helpline service to provide farmers with expert advice on fertiliser use, weed control, pest management, disease prevention, and irrigation for rice cultivation. 

From now on, farmers across the country can dial 09644300300 at any time of the day to receive guidance directly from experts.

The launching of the "Dhaner Helpline," was held today (25 June) during a workshop titled "The Role of Print and Electronic Media in Disseminating Weather-Based Agricultural Advice," BRRI headquarters in Gazipur.

Photo: Courtesy

At the event, BRRI Director General Mohammad Khalequzzaman said, "Unpredictable weather patterns are posing increasing challenges to rice production. This helpline aims to support farmers with timely solutions."

"Rice cultivation is not just a livelihood but the backbone of our food security," Khalequzzaman added. "Timely and scientific advice is essential to overcoming these issues. This helpline brings that support right to the farmer's doorstep."

He further noted that in the age of science-based, technology-driven agriculture, farmers need immediate access to information and services. "Our Agromet Lab is playing a crucial role in this regard. In the future, we aim to provide weather-based farming tips through mobile apps and SMS as well."

In the keynote paper, ABM Zahid Hossain, coordinator of the BRRI Agromet Lab, noted that between 1991 and 2024, Bangladesh has seen a decrease in winter intensity and rising temperatures that are increasingly damaging crops. 

During the discussion, agricultural statistics expert PSO Niaz Mohammad Farhat pointed out that Bangladesh has lacked a proper farmer database for the past 54 years. 

"BRRI has collected data on 29,354 farmers by dividing the country into six zones, aiming to reach 150,000 for more precise, direct information delivery."

He added that the helpline, managed under the Agromet Lab in Gazipur, will help farmers seek advice on disease and pest control, weed management, fertiliser usage and others

BRRI Research Director and Agromet Lab Chief Md Rafiqul Islam said in 1971, per capita arable land was 20 decimals; now it has dropped to 10. While the population grew 2.5 times, food production rose fourfold. Still, 25% of cultivable land remains fallow.