Production In Bangladesh Research Articles

Illuminating the path to sustainable rice harvesting: A solar-based paddy harvester

Paddy is the most important agricultural crop product in Bangladesh since it is widely used in daily life as a main meal intake. Currently, traditional manual harvesting process is widely used to harvest paddy grains in Bangladesh. However, manual harvesting is laborious, time-consuming, and costly. Utilization of modern machineries such as combined paddy harvester machines can increase grain productivity while reducing significantly the number of labour-hours. Combine rice harvesters possess traditional diesel engine that burns gasoline fuels i.e. diesel. The overriding concern of this diesel oil combustion is the production of greenhouse gases that adversely affect the environment. In addition, reports suggest that oil reserve might be depleted to zero in next 40 years. This manuscript presents a comprehensive review on the paddy grain production statistics, the pros and cons of traditional rice crop harvesting processes, and the historical development of mechanization in the agricultural sectors of Bangladesh. It also presents a novel design route to convert commercial diesel-driven combine paddy harvester machine to solar energy-operated combine rice harvester machine with its required accessories. In particular, a new design concept with a remarkable cost estimation process of solar-powered harvesters is proposed. A field study has been conducted in Sonagazi Upazilla under Feni district of Bangladesh to evaluate the potential use of the proposed solar-powered harvester machine. Our study suggests that solar-driven rice harvester is a promising concept in the paddy crop harvesting process and it will reduce the overall costs for short and long-term uses compared to estimated costs of commercial diesel-driven harvesters. To combat the scarcity of gasoline in the future, it is an obvious choice to bring a paradigm shift in solar energy harvesting and its utilization in the agricultural sectors of Bangladesh. It is expected that the proposed solar-driven rice harvester concepts with their in-depth analysis (including costs) would be able to draw attention to business entrepreneurs and investors who will be excited to initiate a program to manufacture solar-powered rice harvester machines in practice.

Comparative Performance of Different Fertilizer Recommendation Methods on Growth and Yield of Rice (Oryza sativa) in Old Brahmaputra Floodplain Soils

Improving rice productivity is the challenge for the farmer due to rapid soil health deterioration in intensive agricultural system. Therefore, the present study was conducted to evaluate comparative performance of different nutrient management practices in rice production in Bangladesh. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. There were six treatments namely, T1 (Control-no fertilizer), T2 (Farmer’s Practice), T3 (Fertilizer Recommendation Guide-2018), T4 (BAU Soil Testing Kit), T5 (Soil Test Basis) and T6 (Rice Crop Manager). The results revealed that all the treatments showed better performances over control (T1). Treatment T4 (BAU Soil Testing Kit) produced the highest value of plant height (90.18 cm), panicle length (24.90), filled grains panicle-1 (122.60) and 1000-grain weight (26.67g) while T5 (Soil Test Basis) produced maximum effective tillers hill-1 (12.80). The highest grain yield (6.29 t ha-1) and straw yield (7.73 t ha-1) were recorded in treatment T4 (BAU Soil Testing Kit). Treatment T4 (BAU Soil Testing Kit) also showed the highest grain yield increase (61.49%) and straw yield increase (90.49%) over control. The highest total N, P and K uptake (108.84 kg ha-1, 24.54 kg ha-1 and 128.17 kg ha-1) were obtained in the treatment T4 (BAU Soil Testing Kit). Control treatment T1 (No fertilizers) showed minimum performances in all the cases compared to other treatments. The overall result demonstrated that the application of fertilizers following BAU Soil Testing Kit method of fertilizer application system is a better option for rice production.

Effect of input subsidies and extension services: Evidence from rice productivity in Bangladesh

This study examines the effect of agricultural input subsidy cards and extension services on Bangladesh’s rice productivity, using plot level panel data from three waves (2011–2019) of the Bangladesh Integrated Household Survey. To control for endogeneity of the two programs, instrumental variable and control function approaches are used. Findings reveal that access to input subsidy cards and extension services raise productivity in rice-planted plots by nearly 20% and 22%, respectively. Further, the channels and type of advisory services matter. Finally, access to input subsidy cards and extension services is more beneficial in areas prone to droughts and excessive rainfall. These findings underscore the value of complementary investments in robust extension systems, especially in vulnerable regions, to optimize the performance of input subsidy programs. Expanded extension services coupled with input subsidies can be an effective policy mix to raise productivity, strengthen climate resilience, and promote inclusive agricultural growth in Bangladesh.

Planting and Harvesting Mechanization on Productivity, Energy Efficacy and Profitability of Potato Production

Potato occupied the first position among all the vegetables in respect of area and total production in Bangladesh. Effective and efficient use of energy are necessary for an improved agricultural production. Therefore, this research was undertaken for potato production to assess productivity, quantify energy flow and financial profitability of different production systems. The experimented four systems were manual planting and manual harvesting, machine planting and manual harvesting, manual planting and machine harvesting and machine planting and machine harvesting, respectively. The experiment was conducted at Farm Machinery and Postharvest Process (FMP) Engineering Division of Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI) during 2017-18. Yield of potato including yield contributing characters for different treatments was not significantly varied. Direct energy was the highest in mechanical planting and harvesting system (25%) and the lower manual planting and harvesting system (18%). Indirect energy shared 82% in manual planting and harvesting system, 78% in machine planting and manual harvesting system, 80% in manual planting and mechanical harvesting system, and 75% in machine planting and machine harvesting system, respectively. The largest source of indirect energy consumption was from fertilizer (22-27% of the total energy). The higher specific energy of 1.93 MJ/kg was found in manually planted and mechanized harvesting system. The higher product value was from manual planting and mechanical harvesting system. The highest BCR (2.25) was found from machine planted and machine harvested followed by manually planted and mechanically harvested plot (2.16), machine planted and manually harvested plot (1.93) and manual planting and harvesting plot (1.91). Thus, mechanically planted and harvested system can be recommended for potato production since it can reduce 52% labour requirement than manual method and can give higher BCR among the tested production methods.

Modeling the Analysis for the Exploitation of Fertilizers and Pesticides on Rice Production in Bangladesh

Modeling the Analysis for the Exploitation of Fertilizers and Pesticides on Rice Production in Bangladesh

Evaluation of environmental impacts of cotton polo shirt production in Bangladesh using life cycle assessment

The textile industry is widely considered as one of the most pollutant-releasing sectors globally. As the world is moving toward sustainability, it is essential to thoroughly assess how a textile product affects the environment. The aim of this study is to investigate the environmental impact of textile manufacturing in Bangladesh using life cycle assessment (LCA) method. A cradle-to-gate LCA was conducted to produce 1000 units of cotton polo shirts following ISO 14040 standards. LCA was also conducted for each final product at every manufacturing stage of cotton polo shirt, including the production of 1000 kg of cotton fibers, 1000 kg of yarn, 1000 kg of grey fabrics, 1000 kg of dyed-finished fabrics, and finally, assembling of 1000 pieces of polo shirts. Inventory analysis revealed that for producing 1000 pieces of polo shirts, 0.12 hector of land, 363.89 kg of cotton fiber, 324.84 kg of yarn, 320.45 kg of knitted fabric, and 299.5 kg of dyed-finished fabrics were required. The study also found that 1550.9 kWh of electricity, 15.47 L of diesel, and 72.54 m3 of natural gas were needed to produce 1000 pieces of polo shirts. The potential environmental impacts were categorized into 12 different types based on the CML 2001 method and calculated using openLCA 2.0 software. The outcomes of LCA revealed considerable environmental impacts in different categories during manufacturing of cotton polo shirts in Bangladesh. For example, the global warming potential (GWP) associated with the manufacturing of 1000 pieces of polo shirts was 1345.97 kg CO2-eq. Among several production stages of polo shirts, the highest contributor of GWP was dyeing section (38.36 %), followed by cotton fiber production (29.32 %) and yarn manufacturing (18.92 %). The obtained data also revealed that for cultivating cotton fibers, manufacturing of yarn and grey fabrics, and finally dyeing-finishing of same quantity fabric (1000 kg), the GWP were 1084.41 kg CO2-eq, 783.67 kg CO2-eq, 145.88 kg CO2-eq, 1723.88 kg CO2-eq, 314.94 kg CO2-eq, respectively. The outcome of the impact assessment will be crucial for decision-making when it comes to taking remedial actions to lessen negative environmental consequences for the sustainable development of textile industry in Bangladesh.

Comparing ARIMA, Neural Network and Hybrid Models for Forecasting Fish Production in Bangladesh

Time series forecasting is a commonly applied method for scientific predictions. There are several econometric methods for forecasting time series observations and predicting the systematic pattern of underlying data. ARIMA model is most renowned in this aspect for its linearity. Nowadays a machine learning model namely artificial neural network (ANN) is gaining popularity for its nonlinear characteristics. Inconsistent conclusions may frequently be drawn when evaluating whether ARIMA models or neural networks are better at forecasting future events. For this reason, a hybrid methodology has been established in this study to get advantage from both linear and nonlinear modeling. The annual dataset of fish production in Bangladesh from 1990 to 2020 has been evaluated in this case. Formulating three measurement errors, RMSE, MAE and MAPE it has been demonstrated that the hybrid approach has high level of forecasting accuracy than the other two models in forecasting fish production data. Dhaka Univ. J. Sci. 72(1): 71-76, 2024 (January)

Forecasting of tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) production in Bangladesh using ARIMA model

Tilapia farming has expanded rapidly in Bangladesh over the years thanks to a suitable climate for aquaculture and a consistently increasing demand for the fish rich in vitamins and minerals. A clear picture regarding the future trend of tilapia production in Bangladesh is still not available, however. The purpose of this study was to estimate parameters that fit into the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model for forecasting tilapia production in Bangladesh. This was accomplished by calibrating and validating the ARIMA model taking into account the lowest values of the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) and Bayesian Information Criteria (BIC), graphical arrangements of autocorrelation function (ACF) and partial autocorrelation function (PACF) plots. The best model derived was ARIMA (1, 1, 1), which showed an upward trend of tilapia production since 2006 to date and predicted a similar trend until the year 2040. If this trend continues, the yearly tilapia outturn in the country may reach 690,000 MT, with an upper limit of 1.15 million MT and lower limit of 0.23 million MT, reflecting a substantial increase of around 118% over that produced in 2021. The results of this study will serve as a valuable resource for researchers, decision-makers, academics, and tilapia entrepreneurs, enabling them to develop effective action plans to optimize tilapia production in Bangladesh and strategize for the future integration of tilapia within the country.

Optimizing Rice Milling in Bangladesh: A Comprehensive Analysis of Semi-Automatic Processes with Modern Machinery

This study investigates the inclusion of modern machinery into the rice milling process in Bangladesh. The investigation spanned three districts-Dinajpur, Kushtia, and Mymensingh. Data collection involved personal interviews employing semi-structured questionnaires and Focus Group Discussions, covering aspects such as mill types, ownership status, existing products, milling machinery varieties, and the total commissioning cost of mills/sections. Employing a primary descriptive statistical method, the study aimed to assess the current status of rice milling, specifically semi-automated processes utilizing modern machinery, focusing on type, capacity, and technological aspects. The research revealed milling costs for semi-automatic operations without modern equipment at Tk.2954 and those with modern equipment at Tk.3460. Whole rice recovery rates were 66.25% and 64.75%, respectively. Semi-automatic rice mills exhibited a capacity range of 1.15-1.75 t/h, with a utilization rate of 40%. The estimated benefit-cost ratios (BCRs) were higher for semi-automatic mills, both with and without modern equipment, at 1.48 and 1.64, respectively. Staff requirements for semi-automatic operations without modern equipment and those with modern equipment were reported as 9.13 and 4.50 person-hours per ton of paddy processing, respectively. These findings serve as a valuable foundation for making well-informed decisions and offering guidance to policymakers, industry stakeholders, and entrepreneurs in optimizing the benefits of automation for sustainable and competitive rice production in Bangladesh.

Development of Submergence Tolerant Rice Variety BRRI dhan79 for Flash Flood Ecosystem of Bangladesh

Tolerance to submergence stress is an important breeding objective for the areas where rice cultivars are subjected to complete inundation for a week or more. Submergence tolerance is an important trait for rice (Oryza sativa L.) in the flash flood-prone ecosystem. The trait is largely controlled by a major gene designated as Sub1 located on chromosome 9. Submergence of rice (Oryza sativa) by flash flooding is a major constraint to rice production in Bangladesh. Quantitative trait loci analyses have revealed that a large portion of this variation in submergence tolerance can be explained by Sub1. A newly released submergence tolerant rice variety namely BRRI dhan79 was developed by hybridization between BRRI dhan49*6/BRRI dhan52 through Marker Assisted Backcrossing and selection method where BRRI dhan52 (submergence tolerant mega variety in Bangladesh) used as Sub1 donor. It can tolerate upto three weeks complete submergence at vegetative stage whereas Sub1 donor mega variety BRRI dhan52 can tolerate on an average two weeks complete submergence condition. It can also tolerate 50-60 cm water stagnation for 15-20 days after de-submergence. The variety has satisfactorily been passed in the proposed variety trial conducted in flash flood prone farmers' field in Bangladesh. As a result, the National Seed Board (NSB) of Bangladesh approved this rice variety for commercial cultivation for the flash flood affected rainfed lowland ecosystem (Transplanted Aman season) in 2017. It meet up all the trait of modern plant likely medium plant heihght (112 cm), strong and stature culm structure, erect flag leaf with stay green leaf at maturity stage and high yield potential with 140 days growth duration (in case of three weeks submergence mature by 160 days). It can produce 5.5 t/ha grain yield under non-stress condition and 4.0-4.5 t/ha yield under three weeks submergence condition. The grain shape of the variety is medium bold. The rice production scenario in flash flood affected region of Bangladesh has been remarkably improved after releasing this rice variety. It has not only change the socio-economic status of farmers but also sustaining food security.

Exploring the Impact of Climate Change on Tea Production in Bangladesh: Analyzing Short- and Long-Run Asymmetrical Effects

Exploring the Impact of Climate Change on Tea Production in Bangladesh: Analyzing Short- and Long-Run Asymmetrical Effects

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

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.

Evaluating Employee Motivation and Productivity in Bangladesh During the Post-pandemic Era

In Bangladesh, improving the productivity of ready-made garment (RMG) factory workers has always been an uphill task, and this has assumed greater proportions after the COVID-19 pandemic. The present study explores the effect of welfare facilities and human resource management practices on the motivation and productivity of RMG workers during the pandemic. On the basis of an advanced statistical analysis, the study accepted all hypotheses proposed to highlight the significant impact of human resource management practices and welfare facilities on the motivation and productivity of workers. Both of these factors showed an association with employee productivity through employee motivation, which proved to be a partial mediator. Moreover, the authenticity of the study was supported by the confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and the structural equation model (SEM), which were represented based on model fit exponents, composite reliability, convergent validity and discriminant validity. The study helps develop an understanding of theoretical and managerial implications, which can assist RMG factory owners, managers, stakeholders and policymakers to motivate workers and improve their productivity.

Using tannery wastes in poultry feed: a matter of concern for safe poultry production in Bangladesh

Nowadays tannery waste is a matter of concern because if it used as livestock feed, it could cause health hazards to humans. Therefore, this study was conducted to know the generation rates, utilization, disposal method of tannery solid wastes (TSWs), and inclusion level of it into the poultry feed. Moreover, this study determined the physical and chemical parameters of interest including moisture content, crude protein (CP) levels, and the presence of heavy metals such as chromium (Cr) and lead (Pb) in the poultry feeds that were sold in the studied area. For these purposes, a field survey was conducted with twenty tannery industries. Broiler feed samples were procured from multiple farmers situated in the Savar area of Dhaka. The feed source was classified into two categories, namely registered and unregistered feed mills. According to the study, wet blue trimmings was generated in 3.84% that was used as an ingredient of poultry feed. In addition, 55% of tanneries landfilled their waste, while 30% of them sold it for poultry feed. The utilization of TSWs in poultry feed production in this country was limited to a maximum of 1.314% of the total annual production. Besides, the CP% was determined in the range of 24.24 - 13.32 % and 18.15 - 11.01 % for broiler starters and growers, respectively, where lower CP content was found only in unregistered feed mills. Trace amounts of Cr and Pb were identified in each of the feed samples at very low concentrations. In conclusion, it can be stated that the percentage of tannery solid wastes mixed poultry feed was generated in negligible amounts and the registered companies’ feed was found normal in all aspects of the quality tested in the study. Keywords: Broiler feed, Feed mill, Heavy metal, Physical quality, Tannery solid waste

Identifying value chain trade-offs from fruit and vegetable aggregation services in Bangladesh using a system dynamics approach.

Significant progress has been made in cereal production in Bangladesh due to an agricultural policy environment that prioritizes the productivity of staple crops over fruit and vegetables (F&V). However, many smallholder farmers remain poorly connected to markets, which may lead to a limited supply response of F&V that can reduce opportunities for sufficient intake in neglected, consumer-facing, smaller retail markets. To address this issue, aggregation schemes have been conceived that collect and transport F&Vs on behalf of multiple farmers. Given the volume of horticultural produce produced and the reliance on developed transport infrastructure, aggregation schemes tend to supply wholesale and urban markets rather than underdeveloped rural and isolated markets. To this end, we investigated how a particular aggregation intervention ('Loop') could potentially improve the distribution of F&V to smaller markets whilst improving farmer benefits. We used an innovative system dynamics modeling approach based on Loop`s aggregation services in Jashore, Bangladesh, and to identify the potential trade-offs between consumer outcomes in retail markets and farmer benefits. We find that combining aggregation with a quota at the smaller market, transport subsidy, and current price growth does not result in trade-offs between consumer purchases and farmers`benefits. However, combining aggregation with current price growth can increase demand without losing farmers`benefits. The findings emphasize that standalone and multiple market-oriented interventions generate broader win-win benefits to promote inclusive food systems.

Antifungal potential of commercial silver nanoparticles against rice blast pathogen Magnaporthe oryzae

The rice blast caused by Magnaporthe oryzae is one of the major and recurrent threats to sustainable rice production in Bangladesh. To mitigate this problem, the present study was undertaken with the aim to investigate the inhibitory effects of commercially available silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) on the growth and development of Magnaporthe oryzae, and control of rice blast disease. In vitro experiments demonstrated that Ag-NPs significantly suppressed the radial growth of fungal mycelium, with the highest inhibition (83.54%) at a concentration of 250 ppm, while Trooper 75 WP at 400 ppm completely inhibited the fungal mycelial growth. The production of conidia and colony formation were also reduced significantly by Ag-NPs treatment. Furthermore, Ag-NPs exhibited a substantial inhibitory effect on the germination of M. oryzae conidia, with complete inhibition observed at concentrations between 200 and 250 ppm. Comparative analyses revealed that the fungicidal effect of Ag-NPs was superior to silver nitrate (AgNO3), suggesting the augmented activity of the nano properties. The sensitivity of M. oryzae to Ag-NPs was determined by calculating EC50 and EC95 values, which indicated a mean EC50 value of 131.5 ppm and a mean EC95 value of 276 ppm. Additionally, in vivo experiments showed that preventive and curative treatments with Ag-NPs significantly reduced disease incidence and severity in rice plants infected with M. oryzae, with efficacy comparable to that of the fungicide Trooper 75 WP. At higher concentrations of Ag-NPs, preventive treatment was found to be more effective than curative treatment in disease control. These findings highlighted the potential of Ag-NPs as an effective alternative for the management of rice blast. Ann. Bangladesh Agric. (2023) 27 (1): 17-30

Growth inhibition of Salmonella by Leuconostoc species isolated from buffalo milk curd

Traditional fermented products are considered to be a niche for microbial diversity. Probiotics offer a unique approach for addressing the threat of antibiotic resistance. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to isolate Leuconostoc spp. from Buffalo milk curd, an artisanal fermented dairy product in Bangladesh and assess their growth inhibition competence against Salmonella sp. A total of 50 isolates were isolated and purified from five freshly prepared buffalo milk curd samples using two different media, with glucose or sucrose as the carbon source. Among these pure isolates, 37 were identified as presumptive Leuconostoc spp. The biochemical identification using the VITEK 2 system confirmed that 59.5% of the isolates were Leuconostoc mesenteroides ssp. cremoris, while 40.5% were Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides. Out of the identified isolates, twelve had a similarity of over 97%, and twenty-five had a similarity of less than 96%. Consequently, these twelve isolates were tested for their antimicrobial activity against Salmonella sp. using two in vitro methods, agar well diffusion and microbroth. The isolate M1L1 exhibited the highest inhibitory zone (15 mm) and showed 55.6% growth inhibition by the agar well diffusion and microbroth assay, respectively, suggesting a similar efficacy between the two methods. Notably, five other isolates also displayed inhibitory zones ranging from 13 to 15 mm and growth inhibition percentages of 37 to 52%. Overall, the isolated Leuconostoc spp. could be utilized as probiotics to combat pathogenic microorganisms. Ann. Bangladesh Agric. (2023) 27 (1): 93-104

Exploring the Market Value Chain Dynamics of Chepa (Semi-Fermented Fish): A Promising Solution to Alleviate Nutritional Deficiency

Chepa, a widely consumed processed fish product in Bangladesh, is prepared through the semi-fermentation process using small fish varieties such as Phaisa and Puti. The study aimed to explore the business dynamics of Chepa production and marketing, focusing on identifying challenges and issues in the process. In the study, focus group discussion (FGD) and face-to-face interviewing were conducted using semi-structured questionnaires. Additionally, PESTLE framework was employed to assess the operational aspects of the Chepa business. The study identified seven key stakeholders in the different nods of the Chepa value chain, highlighting their role alongside supporting entities. The production process involved careful categorization of dried fish based on size and quality. Notable, women constituted predominant workforce in the midstream segment, especially contributing to fish processing. Unlike other food items, Chepa fermenting processes carried out in treated earthen pots without using any chemicals and pesticide, resulting in a distinctive flavor and color. The study underscores the profitability of Chepa industry, although fishermen earned the lowest profit among the shareholders. Furthermore, the declining populations of small fish in water body like haor, posing a threat to their livelihoods. The PESTLE analysis highlighted the importance of an integrated, and multidisciplinary approach to food safety and quality, stressing the importance of training and institutional development. The outcomes of our study offer valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders, guiding efforts toward establishing a sustainable and resilient Chepa industry. Vol. 10, No. 3, December 2023: 353-366

An economic study and resource use efficiency of brinjal production in Bangladesh

This study assessed brinjal producers' socioeconomic characteristics, profitability, and resource use efficiency. The study was carried out in Boalmari and Faridpur sadar upazila in Faridpur district, Mithapukur, and Gangachara upazila in Rangpur district,Kaligonj upazila in Shatkhira district, and Jashore sadar upazila in Jashore district. Data were gathered via the use of an interview schedule from a sample of 60 respondents chosen at random between the dates of January 1stand March 31st, 2021. A Cobb-Douglas production function (CDPF) analysis was performed with descriptive statistics to explore the factors influencing brinjal production. In this study,majority of respondents (46.67%) were found middle-aged (31–45 years old). A major percentage of brinjal farmers (45%) were illiterate, while 23.33% had secondary education. About 41.67% of brinjal farmers had a medium family (5-6 persons), while over 30% had a big family of more than 6. Fertilizers, seed, and insecticides were the major variable costs during the brinjal production. The findings also revealed that the total production cost, gross returns, gross margin, and net return per hectare were Tk. 169877, Tk.534594, Tk. 388767, and Tk.364717, respectively. The brinjal cultivation was found profitable as the benefit-cost ratio (BCR) was found 3.14. The CDPF analysis revealed that the machinery utilized was negatively significant for brinjal production, whereas the coefficients of hired labor and urea were favorably significant. Except forthe overuse of insecticides, resource usage efficiency showed that all the resources were underutilized for brinjal farming.

Unveiling mega-prosumers for sustainable electricity generation in a developing country with techno-economic and emission analysis

In response to the urgent climate crisis, there is a growing emphasis on reducing carbon emissions and decreasing reliance on fossil fuels. This research aims to explore the possibility of enhancing renewable energy production in Bangladesh by installing photovoltaic (PV) systems on the rooftops of 30 universities to fulfill the sustainable development goal-7 (SDG-7). Helioscope is used for planning the deployment of PV systems while DIgSILENT PowerFactory is utilized for analyzing their impact on the grid. Site selection and data collection are conducted considering energy consumption and solar potential at different universities in Bangladesh. The results indicate that 29.5 MW (approximately) of power could be generated from approximately 84,295 solar panels rated at 350 W, producing about 43 GWh of electricity annually. Technical assessments on grid stability demonstrate that PV integration significantly reduces grid dependency and enhances voltage security. Economic analyses reveal that the proposed PV project is cost-effective compared to existing power plants, considering all relevant expenses. Furthermore, there is a reduction in CO2 emissions due to this project of 890.72 tons, per year, which translates to an emission factor of approximately 0.608 kg of CO2-eq/kWh. In particular, this study endorses the use of rooftop solar PV systems for universities in Bangladesh as mega-prosumers to promote sustainability and increase energy consumption, demonstrating their technical, economic, and environmental feasibility.