Assessing COVID-19's Effects on Farmers Using a Phone Survey in the Feed the Future Zone of Influence in Bangladesh

A phone survey conducted in October 2020 aimed to assess the effects of the pandemic on farmers. The survey targeted 1,200 farmers across 12 districts in Bangladesh, with a focus on rice farming, non-rice crops, and non-crop agriculture. Rice farming was a major focus of the survey, with a particular emphasis on boro and aus rice. Boro rice is a seasonal crop that is typically harvested in the spring, while aus rice is a summer crop. The survey found that boro rice farmers faced significant challenges, including market shortages and higher prices for agricultural labor and inputs. In contrast, aus rice farmers reported fewer difficulties, although they still faced challenges related to market shortages and higher prices for inputs. Non-rice crops, such as banana, brinjal, flowers, and jute, were also surveyed. The results showed that farmers of these crops faced significant challenges, including market shortages, higher prices for inputs, and difficulties in selling their produce. Banana farmers reported the most significant challenges, with 21% of respondents unable to sell their produce at least once during the survey period. Non-crop agriculture, including dairy farming, fish farming, and poultry farming, was also assessed. The survey found that dairy farmers faced significant challenges, including market shortages and higher prices for inputs. Fish farmers reported fewer difficulties, although they still faced challenges related to market shortages and higher prices for inputs. Poultry farmers, including egg and broiler farmers, reported significant challenges, including market shortages and higher prices for inputs. The survey also examined the impact of government-announced low-interest loans for agriculture and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The results showed that many farmers were aware of the loans but did not apply for them due to various reasons, including lack of information and difficulty in accessing the loans. The survey also found that farmers who received agriculture-related assistance during the pandemic reported higher levels of income and food security compared to those who did not receive assistance. Overall, the survey highlights the significant challenges faced by farmers in Bangladesh during the COVID-19 pandemic. The results provide valuable insights into the impact of the pandemic on farmers and suggest the need for targeted support to help them recover and adapt to the changing agricultural landscape.