Why hasn’t AWD gained popularity even after 20 years?
Although the Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) method has proven effective in saving water, reducing methane emissions, and increasing yields in rice cultivation, it has failed to achieve widespread adoption in Bangladesh even after nearly two decades. Experts say the main barriers include the country's traditional irrigation pricing system, uneven land topography, limited farmer awareness, and the lack of adequate incentives. However, they believe that with effective communication, proper training, and strong public–private coordination, AWD can be scaled up profitably and sustainably across the country.
