A seminar on the challenges and prospects of solar pump-powered irrigation for boro rice cultivation in haor areas was held in Mymensingh on 1 August.
The discussion included a case study on boro cultivation in the haor region.
Syed Emran Saleh Prince said energy security, food security and climate-resilient agriculture are closely connected to Bangladesh's development.
He said solar power could be an effective and promising renewable-energy source in Bangladesh.
Prince said diesel-based irrigation has been increasing farmers' production costs in haor areas.
He described solar pump-powered irrigation as a potential option for boro cultivation, citing lower energy costs, reduced diesel reliance and more timely irrigation as possible benefits.
Participants discussed challenges in using solar pumps in haor areas and possible ways to address them.
Professor Mizanur Rahman of Bangladesh Agricultural University presented the main paper at the event.