The vegetable farmers in Manikganj have adopted mulching, an environmentally friendly and profitable agricultural practice. By employing mulching, these farmers have achieved double yields and favorable market prices for their vegetables. Mulching involves covering plant roots, vegetable fields, and garden beds with various materials to create a protective layer that is free from toxins found in imported vegetables. The use of plastic mulching has gained popularity with the modernization of agriculture. Inspired by successful outcomes, other farmers in the region have begun cultivating safe vegetables using mulching paper.
This method not only doubles the yield but also reduces labor and production costs while being accessible and environmentally friendly. The Integrated Agriculture Unit, in collaboration with the Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF) and the Wave Foundation, has provided financial and technical support to farmers adopting mulching techniques, empowering them to achieve self-sufficiency in safe crop production and marketing. The Department of Agriculture (DAE) has initiated pilot programs to cultivate poison-free vegetables using mulching techniques, aiming to encourage local farmers and promote eco-friendly agricultural practices for sustainable and safe vegetable production.