Initiative to Preserve Indigenous Rice Varieties by Mangalkot Agriculture Department

In a significant step toward preserving indigenous rice varieties, the Agriculture Department of Mangalkot block in East Burdwan district — known for its rich granary heritage — has launched a unique initiative. The project is being spearheaded by newly appointed Agricultural Development Officer (ADO) Tathagata Nath, who had previously seen notable success with a similar project in the drought-prone Raipur block of Bankura.

Upon taking charge in Mangalkot, Mr. Nath has prioritized the distribution of traditional rice seeds in key regions including Majigram, Bhallagram and Nigan, among the 15 regions of the block. The seed distribution began in June and will continue through August 2025, with over 100 farmers already participating in the initiative.

Indigenous rice varieties such as Gobindobhog, Bashful, Dadkhani, Tulaipanji, Radhatilak, Chamatkar, and Kalikhasha are being distributed among local farmers. According to ADO Nath, the seeds have been sourced not only from various parts of South and North Bengal but also from the state of Tripura, underscoring the project’s wide-reaching vision.

In addition, the Agriculture Department has commenced experimental cultivation of multiple indigenous rice varieties on 12 acres of farmland under its supervision. This pilot project is expected to lay the foundation for future expansion of traditional rice farming in the region.

The initiative has received praise from both agricultural experts and local farmers, many of whom see it as a promising move to revive traditional agriculture while also offering commercially viable alternatives in the long run.

Mangalkot’s farming sector now looks toward a future rooted in heritage and sustainability.

– By Parijat Molla, Mangalkot 

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Initiative to Preserve Indigenous Rice Varieties by Mangalkot Agriculture Department – Led by ADO Tathagata Nath, the project opens new doors in farming innovation

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For publication of your creative composition like poem, story, painting, achievement, any article, pl. post here – 9339228087, 6289583507.

For news coverage here or in various newspapers, web & TV Channels, Ph- 9339228087, 6289583507      *Asish Basak*   hellokolkata1@gmail.com