PRAN's contractual farmers are currently busy harvesting cassava across the country. Alongside harvesting, they are also planting seeds for the next season. Cassava, locally known as Shimul Alu, is a root crop grown in fallow lands and hilly areas with minimal cost and labor. PRAN directly collects cassava from farmers, who have cultivated over 5,500 acres this season. The company aims to procure 35,000 tons of cassava this year. Kamruzzaman Tito, Head of Contract Farming at PRAN, stated, “Farmers in Rangamati, Khagrachhari, Sylhet, Habiganj, Moulvibazar, Tangail, and Cumilla have cultivated cassava in unused lands. Last year, we collected 29,000 tons from 4,822 acres, and this year, we expect an average yield of seven tons per acre.” He noted that both cultivation and collection occur simultaneously. Harvesting began in November and will continue until May. Farmers are increasingly interested in cassava cultivation due to its economic benefits and higher yields. Kamruzzaman Kamal, Marketing Director of PRAN-RFL Group, said, “We transport cassava to our Habiganj Industrial Park in Shayestaganj, where we process it into starch. Cassava starch is a key ingredient in food products like bread, cakes, biscuits, and noodles. It is also widely used in the garment and pharmaceutical industries.” PRAN introduced contract farming of cassava in 2014, encouraging farmers to grow this crop. Through this initiative, hilly and fallow lands are being utilized while farmers benefit financially. The company supports farmers by offering training, financial aid, and affordable seeds and equipment. This initiative is helping farmers enhance their income while ensuring a steady supply of cassava for PRAN’s production needs.