Photo : BSS

GOPALGANJ, April 27, 2026 (BSS) - A newly introduced high-yielding Ufshi rice variety, BRRI-108, developed by the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute, is boosting optimism among farmers in Gopalganj and nearby districts after producing a bumper yield during the current Boro season.

Farmers are increasingly showing interest in cultivating BRRI-108 due to its high productivity, fine grain quality, and favorable market price. The variety matures within 149 to 151 days and, with proper care, can yield more than 8.7 tonnes per hectare.

It is also less susceptible to common pests and diseases compared to conventional rice varieties, making it a cost-effective option for growers.

Dr. Amina Khatun, Chief Scientific Officer at BRRI’s Gopalganj Regional Office, said the institute is working across Gopalganj, Bagerhat, and Narail to boost rice production and strengthen national food security through high-yielding and hybrid varieties.

During the current Boro season, BRRI-108 has been cultivated on 63 hectares of land across these districts.

Farmer Rabindranath Biswas from Borashi village in Gopalganj Sadar upazila reported significantly higher yields compared to traditional varieties.

“Previously, I used to harvest 30 to 35 maunds per bigha, which took around 160 days. This year, I cultivated BRRI-108 for the first time and harvested 45 maunds per bigha within 149 days,” he said, adding that production costs ranged between Taka 15,000 and Taka 20,000 per bigha.

According to BRRI officials, the variety shows even greater potential under optimal conditions, with yields reaching up to 9.5 to 10 tonnes per hectare. The average plant height is about 102 cm, with erect, dark green leaves and good resistance to lodging.

Dr. Md. Romel Biswas, Senior Scientific Officer at BRRI’s Gopalganj office, said that BRRI-108 is a nutrient-rich, fine-grain rice variety suitable for the Boro season. First introduced in 2024, it is now undergoing both experimental and commercial cultivation in multiple districts.

Local agricultural officials have also praised the variety’s performance. Binodini Sikder, Deputy Assistant Agriculture Officer of Borashi union, said demonstration plots under BRRI’s LSTD project have produced impressive results. “Farmers are highly encouraged by the higher yields compared to conventional varieties. Demand for seeds is increasing,” she said.

Gopalganj Sadar upazila Agriculture Officer Mafroza Akhter highlighted the nutritional benefits of the variety, saying that it contains around 8.8 percent protein—higher than many traditional types—and offers improved grain quality. “BRRI-108 not only ensures higher yields but also contributes to better nutrition and profitability for farmers,” she said.

With its high yield potential, resilience, and nutritional value, BRRI-108 is emerging as a promising solution for boosting rice production, enhancing farmer incomes, and strengthening food security in Bangladesh.