Cereal Grains of Bangladesh – Present Status, Constraints and Prospects

The edible seeds or grains of the grass family Poaceae (conserved name Gramineae) is commonly known as cereals and are cultivated for the edible component, grain consisting of the germ (or an embryo), endosperm and bran. Bangladesh, predominantly an agrarian country, has a long tradition of cereal grains cultivation, consumption and conservation. Rice is the staple food for millions (of people) across the globe including Bangladesh. It occupies more than 96% of the land area under “Cereal Agriculture” in Bangladesh. Maize occupies the 2nd position both in acreage and production followed by wheat and other minor cereals viz. barley, sorghum and millets. In this chapter, the historical development and production scenario of different cereal crops and their present status, constraints, challenges and opportunities has been described and discussed. The information presented here would provide a clear inside of the “Cereal Agriculture of Bangladesh” to students, researchers, administrators, policymakers, and the common people as well.