In a groundbreaking development for Bangladesh’s agriculture, Gazipur Agricultural University (GAU) has successfully developed the country’s first high drought-tolerant soybean hybrid, named ‘GAU Soybean’.
The achievement comes under the leadership of the distinguished crop scientist Prof Dr MA Mannan of the university’s Department of Agronomy, university officials said.
With this innovation, they said, GAU has now introduced a total of 94 crop varieties, opening new avenues for sustainable agriculture in the country.
The new variety emerged from a rigorous three-year evaluation of approximately 250 germplasms sourced from Taiwan’s Asian Vegetable Research and Development Centre, the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute and South Korea. It was selected for its exceptional drought tolerance.
Subsequently, five years of successful field trials in Noakhali, Lakshmipur and Bhola, conducted with the support of the Solidaridad Network Asia, led to its formal release by the National Seed Board, the officials said.
GAU Soybean demonstrates remarkable resilience, thriving and yielding high output even under harsh drought conditions equivalent to 50–60% of field capacity.
Experts consider this trait a significant addition to Bangladesh’s agricultural landscape, particularly for the coastal char regions where soybean cultivation has long faced constraints.
Each plant produces 80–100 pods, and thanks to its large seeds, 1,000 seeds weigh approximately 230 grams. Compared with conventional varieties, GAU Soybean offers higher yields, ranging from 3.2 to 3.8 tonnes per hectare.
A notable feature of this variety is its low trypsin content, enhancing protein absorption in poultry feed, making it highly valuable for the poultry industry.
Besides, the crop reaches maturity quickly, taking just three months to three months and ten days, allowing farmers to achieve early and substantial harvests.
Nutritionally, soybean is a powerhouse, and GAU Soybean is no exception. It contains around 40–45% high-quality protein and 18–20% oil. Rich in essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, it contributes significantly to combating malnutrition, reducing cardiovascular risk, and supporting normal growth and immunity.
Commenting on the development, Dr Mannan said, “GAU Soybean represents the culmination of relentless research, exposure to field conditions, and the aspirations of our farmers. It effectively tackles the challenges posed by salinity, erratic rainfall, and unpredictable weather in coastal char regions. Cultivating soybean in drought-prone soils has always been risky, and this variety opens a new door of possibilities for farmers.”
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Expressing his satisfaction, Professor Dr JKM Mostafizur Rahman, Vice-Chancellor of GAU, described GAU Soybean as ‘the sixth revolutionary achievement in Bangladesh’s agriculture’.
He emphasised that the variety could serve as a symbol of sustainable farming, strengthening national food security and providing stability in farmers’ livelihoods.
Mostafizur Rahman also extended heartfelt thanks to the research team, laboratory staff, and field scientists who contributed to this landmark success.