The southwest coastal belt is a key focus area of the PPEPP-EU project which is particularly prone to climate stress. Waterlogging is a chronic problem in Bangladesh’s coastal areas that can severely damage agriculture and the livelihoods of millions of people. As a result, farmers often face poor yields or are restricted to growing only one or two low-value crops each year which directly affects the life and livelihood of the people.
The PPEPP-EU project introduced ‘Sorjan’ method of farming in five districts of the southwest coastal region. This method involves constructing alternating raised beds and deep sinks on farmland. The raised beds are used for growing crops, while the deep sinks can be used to manage water and raise fish during both the wet and dry seasons. The Sorjan technique tackles various challenges faced by farmers in coastal areas. It helps prevent soil salinity issues and protects crops from flood damage and waterlogged roots during the monsoon season.
The story of Kohinoor Begum is one of transforming the fortunes of the waterlogged southwest coastal communities by adopting advanced agricultural technology ‘Sorjan’ in the field. Like many other families in this area, Kohinoor Begum and her family had a very difficult life because of climate issues. She lived with her family in Barapari village in Khaulia Union of Morelganj Upazila of Bagerhat. Despite owning their land, they cannot utilize it effectively due to water logging. Culturing seasonal fish in ponds is the only basic means of their livelihood.
The financial condition of Kohinoor’s family totally broke down due to her husband Babul Hossain’s long illness. But hope arrived with the Pathways to Prosperity for Extremely Poor People-European People (PPEPP-EU) project, which aimed to uplift coastal communities through innovative agricultural technologies.
Kohinoor joined the Prosperity Village Committee sessions, where she learned about Sorjan agricultural method, a revolutionary approach enabling vegetable cultivation alongside fish culture in tidal areas. Kohinoor was initially hesitant, about the method as it was new to their community. But with persistent guidance from PPEPP-EU technical officers later she showed interest in following this.
In September 2023, Kohinoor Begum received a grant of BDT 25,000 from the project to implement the Sorjan method for vegetable and fish farming. Over six months, she successfully harvested 400 kg of tomatoes, gourds, sweet pumpkins, and leafy greens. Additionally, she was provided with four types of fish fry—Grass Carp, Sarpunti, Monosex Tilapia, and Ruhi.
Before receiving the grant, she farmed fish and cultivated vegetables along the edge of a 20-decimal pond. In the previous year, she invested BDT 7,000 and earned BDT 15,000. In the following year, with her additional 10 decimals of land and support from the PPEPP-EU grant of BDT 25,000, she expanded her activities. She generated a total income of BDT 90,000, achieving a profit of BDT 55,000.
During the period of financial stability, Kohinoor took the initiative to arrange proper treatment for her husband, Babul. As a result, his health fully recovered. Babul’s active support played a significant role in helping her achieve success.
That’s why with a smile of quiet triumph, Morelganj’s Kohinoor Begum often says, “The Sorjan method didn’t just change my farm; it changed my life.”