The Impact of the HYV Technology on the Variability of Rice Production and Yield: Some Evidence from Bangladesh

In recent years, the impact of the high-yielding varieties (HYVs) of cereals on the stability of cereals production has received increasing attention along with the growth potential of the technology. A number of studies, especially on Indian agriculture, have emphasized the destabilizing impact of the technology on foodgrains production. In contrast to such findings, the present analysis of rice production and yield in Bangladesh suggests a lower variability during the postadoption period. Such conclusions are also supported by seasonal and regional data, although HYVs themselves are seen to be more variable than their local counterparts. An examination of the trends in variability during periods separated by the new technology provides an evidence of a reversal of trends. It is argued that, with the introduction of HYVs, complementary technological innovations and land/water resources development have taken place, which have enabled the farmers to reduce gross dependence on nature and played key roles in reductions in variability in rice production and yield in Bangladesh.