Team members: Kazi Ali Taufique (Team Leader), Kazi Iqbal, Emdadul Haque and M. Niamul Naser

This study deals with quality of seeds and pesticides in Bangladesh. The importance of the issue hinges on the role of quality seed in enhancing agricultural output, improving food security and reduction of poverty.

The main objectives of the study are to critically review the current policy and regulatory framework (particularly the role of the Seed Certification Agency) related to seed, identification of the key actors in the seed value chain, assessment of the loss of agricultural productivity due to low quality seed, role of extension agents and suggest policy changes.

Primary as well as secondary data are used for the study. Discussions were also held with the key actors such as the government officials, NGOs, private sector, input dealers, academics and farmers. The key component of the study is a survey carried on 700 farmers selected from seven districts: Thakurgaon, Pabna, Rajshahi, Chuadanga, Jhenaidah, Mymensingh and Netrokona. These farmers were selected from 28 villages (four villages being selected from each upazila).