Osman Gani, Chandina (Cumilla) 

Agriculture is at the root of Bangladesh's economy and culture. One of those who are working silently and selflessly to advance that agriculture is Mujibul Haque Master, a decent man, social worker and agricultural entrepreneur from the headquarters of Chandina Upazila of Comilla. He is not only known as a teacher, but also as the founder of "Agrani Bij Bhandar", he has become a symbol of trust for farmers today.

In 2008, he started his journey with a small seed shop based on his own capital and interest. In the beginning, there were various obstacles, collecting good seeds from the right source, gaining the trust of farmers, and competition in the market. But with patience, honesty and dedication, he gradually won the trust of farmers. Today, his “Agrani Bij Bhandar” is an established and popular agricultural input supplier in Chandina Upazila. He also has a newspaper agency called “Barta Bipani” and a courier service agency. Many people who come to his agency to buy and read newspapers and send and receive letters buy good quality seeds and pesticides.

High-yielding varieties of seeds of paddy, wheat, corn, mustard, vegetables and fruits are available here. Along with this, there are quality fertilizers, pesticides, granular and liquid organic fertilizers, hormones, insect control tablets and various agricultural technologies. Not only does he supply inputs, he becomes a consultant and friend for every farmer.

Mujibul Haque Master discusses various topics about agriculture with the farmers who come to him to buy seeds and advises the farmers on sowing seeds after understanding the soil and its nature. Sometimes he goes to the field with the farmers to see the cultivated land and spends time with them. He explains the seed selection and cultivation methods by considering their soil type, season, irrigation system, and climate. Many new farmers benefit from his advice for the first time and say, “I got a good yield this time by cultivating according to the words of Master Sahib.”

Apart from Chandina, farmers from Debidwar, Muradnagar, Titas, Homna, and Brahmanpara upazilas also come to him for seeds and materials. Some also seek advice over the phone. He records the names, land area, and cultivation methods of the farmers in his diary so that he can easily help them in the next season.

Even as a teacher, his contribution, which he loves agriculture, is undoubtedly commendable. He believes that “the development of the country is possible only when the farmers benefit.” His “Agrani Bija Bhandar” is now not just a shop, but has become a kind of agricultural awareness center.

He repeatedly tells the youth, “Instead of chasing jobs, focus on the use of modern technology in agriculture and commercial farming, agriculture can also be a big field of potential.”

If entrepreneurs like Mujibul Haque Master stand by the side of farmers, our agriculture will be more dynamic, food security will be ensured, and the country's economy will be more prosperous.