Photo: Messenger
The banana farmers of Manikganj district are happy with bumper harvest in the current season.
The labor cost associated with banana cultivation remains significantly lower compared to other crops, making it a preferred choice for local farmers. The use of organic fertilizers has driven a surge in demand for Manikganj's bananas within the local market, and these bananas are now being shipped to various regions across the country to meet the increasing demand.
According to the latest data from the Agriculture Office, banana cultivation has spanned across a whopping 550 hectares of land within the district this season. Furthermore, the Department of Agriculture reports a steady rise in banana cultivation due to the attractive pricing and domestic demand.
This year, farmers in seven upazilas of Manikganj have successfully cultivated various banana varieties, including Sabri, Meher Sagan, Champa, and Mohanbhog. Their investment of Tk 20,000 per bigha in fertilizers, pesticides, banana tree care, and labor has yielded profits ranging from Tk 40,000 to Tk 50,000 per bigha. Farmers attribute this season's successful banana production to favorable weather conditions.
The burgeoning profitability of banana cultivation is drawing the attention of many local farmers, with wholesalers from the capital's caravan market actively purchasing Manikganj's bananas to meet the high demand. As a result, more individuals are showing interest in banana farming.
Dulal Chandra, Deputy Assistant Agriculture Officer of Jaimantop Union, highlighted the favorable climate and fertile soil that make Singair a promising region for banana cultivation. The low production costs and substantial profits make banana farming an attractive proposition for vegetable farmers.
Hasan Ali from the Garai Vikra village in Sadar Upazila shared his experience of cultivating bananas as a vegetable on the banks of the Dhaleswir river. He emphasized the cost-effectiveness of banana farming and how low-cost seedlings and minimal inputs have contributed to his success.
Habibur Rahman, hailing from Nayabari village in Singair upazila, voiced his satisfaction with banana farming, noting that selling bananas presents far fewer challenges compared to other crops. Retail wholesalers purchase bananas directly from the land, and the prices have been favorable, fetching Tk 450 to Tk 500 per bunch. Sabri banana silk commands even higher prices at Tk 500 to Tk 600, while Sagar and colored Meher Sagar banana silk are wholesaled at Tk 300 to Tk 350 per bunch. With costs ranging from 12 to 15 thousand per bigha, the economics of banana farming are proving compelling for local farmers.
Abu Md Enayet Ullah, Deputy Director of Manikganj District Agricultural Extension Department, noted that three upazilas in Manikganj are particularly well-suited for banana cultivation due to their soil and climate conditions. The local market's demand for bananas remains robust, and the department continues to support banana growers through training, providing necessary fertilizers, seedlings, and valuable advice.
Messenger/Fardin
