Parul Begum, a 45-year-old farmer from Khanjanpara, Bangladesh, aimed to boost her farm’s productivity and cut down on input costs. When her local agricultural officer introduced her to Bt eggplant, known locally as Bt brinjal, she realized this pest-resistant variety could be the solution she needed. Encouraged by the potential for a variety resistant to the devastating eggplant fruit and shoot borer (EFSB) that could fetch higher prices, she took the step to plant Bt brinjal seedlings. The results, she says, have been remarkable. 

“We have not used any pesticides, just fertilizer and water, and so far, no borer insects have been found in the crop,” Parul shared.

Thanks to the improved qualities of Bt brinjal, Parul no longer needs to transport her produce to the market. Instead, customers come to her farm to make direct purchases. “When they come, they ask for a kilo or two, and everyone leaves happy with their brinjals,” she said with a smile.

Parul cultivated her seedlings on half of her land, or approximately one-tenth of an acre. The outcome has exceeded her expectations. “Selling Bt brinjal brings good profit. It costs less than other brinjals. Other brinjals require a lot of pesticides. This one is better; it needs fewer inputs,” Parul explained. “The money I earn from selling them helps me run my household and save some money.”

The income from selling Bt brinjal has significantly impacted Parul’s household. “I have four grandchildren who go to school, and they often ask me for money for their transport fare. Just by selling one kilogram of brinjal, I can provide for them. The profits not only help run my household but also allow me to save some money,” she added.

For Parul, Bt brinjal has transformed her approach to farming. She no longer struggles with rising costs or the constant need for pesticides. The Bt brinjals she sells are in high demand, providing her with a steady stream of income that has improved her household’s financial situation. 

Importantly, growing Bt eggplant boosted her confidence and pride in her work. What started as a personal decision to try something different has now spread throughout her community, where other farmers are inspired by her success. Bt brinjal has shown Parul that even small changes can lead to significant growth for her family and her neighbors.