Photo : Messenger
Seasonal water chestnut cultivation has emerged as a lucrative venture, capturing the interest of local farmers and transforming the fortunes of many families in Singra Upazila in Natore.
The Upazila Agriculture Extension Department reports a shift from traditional paddy cultivation to commercial water chestnut farming over the past 5-6 years, attributing the trend to the profitability of this unique fruit.
The cultivation of water chestnuts, locally known as 'Singara,' has witnessed a steady rise in areas like Singra Municipality, Kalam, Sherkol, Tajpur, and Ramanand Khajura Unions, with fallow and low-lying lands being transformed into thriving water chestnut fields.
Farmers reveal that the water chestnuts, grown in reservoirs, are seedless and locally cherished for their distinct taste. This seasonal crop, rich in water and minerals, has become a staple in the agricultural landscape.
Saiful Islam, a farmer with six years of water chestnut cultivation experience in Chaksingra Bill of Singra Town, shares his success story. "Six years ago, we achieved a good yield through experimental cultivation in a small area. This year, I expanded to 2 bigha of land, investing Tk 15 thousand with hopes of a Tk 50 thousand return. We sell wholesale at Tk 1000 per maund," says Islam, emphasizing the profitability of water chestnut farming.
Atiqul Islam, another farmer, notes the increasing popularity of water chestnut cultivation in the region due to its low production costs and high profits. "The cost is low, and the profit is high. That's why cultivation is expanding every year in our area," states Atiqul Islam.
Abdur Rashid echoes this sentiment, expressing how water chestnut cultivation has restored prosperity to his family. "Both yield and market price are favorable this time. We anticipate higher profits compared to the last season," says Rashid, highlighting the positive impact on farmers' livelihoods.
Agriculturist Khandaker Farid, the Upazila Agriculture Officer, affirms that the Agriculture Department stands firmly by the farmers, emphasizing the cost-effectiveness and profitability of water chestnut cultivation. "Farmers are drawn to this profession as the cost and effort are minimal, and the returns are substantial," states Farid, underscoring the department's commitment to supporting the thriving water chestnut industry in Singra Upazila.
Messenger/Shahidul /Sun Yath
