In the Rajshahi region of Bangladesh, onion seeds, often termed as "black gold" due to their lucrative market value and distinctive color, have seen a significant increase in both demand and price. Last year, the seeds sold for an average of Tk 5,000 per maund. However, this year, due to adverse weather conditions, there are concerns about reduced yields, potentially driving prices even higher. Farmers in Rajshahi have expanded their cultivation area to 271 hectares, up from the previous year, despite facing nearly doubled costs and challenges like decreased pollination and damage from rain and storms.
The cultivation process for onion seeds is intricate and time-consuming, requiring about four months from planting to seed harvest. The decrease in bee populations, essential for pollination, has been attributed to factors like urbanization and the use of chemicals, complicating the cultivation process further. Farmers are facing increased costs due to the need for additional measures like hand pollination and protective fencing against weather damage, making the endeavor risky yet potentially highly rewarding.
Despite these challenges, the demand for onions and their seeds continues to grow, driving more farmers in the Rajshahi region to engage in onion seed farming. With the significant market value of onion seeds and the risks involved, the farming community remains hopeful for a profitable season. The region has established itself as a critical supplier of onion seeds, catering to the nationwide demand and reflecting the crop's essential role in Bangladesh's agriculture and economy.