A Comprehensive Overview of Automatic Rice Milling with Modern Machinery in Bangladesh

Abstract

This research paper thoroughly studied how modern machinery is used in milling rice in Bangladesh. The study took place in three districts: Dinajpur, Kushtia, and Mymensingh. Researchers gathered information through personal interviews, surveys, and group discussions. Data was collected from automatic mills, ownership, products, machinery used, and the cost of setting up the mill. The data analysis used a simple descriptive statistical method. The main goal of the research was to understand the current situation of rice milling in terms of automation, including the types of technology and capacities involved. For mills with modern equipment, the milling cost was Tk.2601, while for those without modern equipment, it was Tk.3098. The rice recovery rates were 67.5% and 66%, respectively. Automatic rice mills had a capacity of 3-3.5 tons per hour, with a utilization rate of 56%. The research also found that the estimated benefit-cost ratios (BCRs) were higher in automatic rice mills, both with and without modern equipment, at 2.64 and 2.49, respectively. Profit margins per ton of milled rice were highest in automatic mills without modern equipment (Tk. 5881) and lowest in mills with modern equipment (Tk. 7338). The staff cost per ton of paddy processing was lowest in modern automatic rice mills (Tk. 101), mainly due to their higher capacity and automation. Automatic rice mills without modern equipment had a staff cost of Tk. 173 per ton. The findings of this research provide valuable information for decision-makers, guiding policymakers, industry stakeholders, and entrepreneurs to make informed choices and optimize the benefits of automation for sustainable and competitive rice production in Bangladesh.