Sunflower farming has increased in Rangpur region as a result of the government's incentive programmes and motivational activities for the farmers.

"This year, sunflower have been cultivated on 221 hectares of land, which is 26 hectares more than last season," said an official release.

The flower has been cultivated on highest 108 hectares of land in Kurigram district, 43 hectares in Rangpur, 69 hectares in Gaibandha and one hectare in Nilphamari, added the release.

The Department of Agriculture Extension (DAE) has been giving incentives along with conducting motivational activities to encourage farmers to cultivate sunflowers. As part of the incentive program, fertilizers and pesticides have been provided along with seeds to the farmers.