A young, educated entrepreneur is seen nursing to his dragon garden in Jhenidah. Photo: TDM
The cultivation of high-value exotic fruits has seen a remarkable increase in recent years in Jhenidah district, thanks to the efforts of young individuals who have turned to commercial fruit growing for higher profits. One such success story is Aktaruzzaman, a dedicated horticulturist, who has achieved significant success in cultivating exotic fruits like dragon, malta, and chatki oranges. His journey showcases the power of dedication and innovation in achieving success.
Within just 6 to 7 years of entering the fruit cultivation business, Aktaruzzaman has achieved impressive feats. Departing from traditional farming practices, he ventured into cultivating unique fruits, which garnered attention. His unconventional techniques and achievements have made him a role model for local farmers.
Managing a vast area of 50 bighas, he cultivates improved variants of Dragon, Malta, and Chatki oranges. In the previous harvest, his fruit sales reached a remarkable one and a half crore rupees. This year, he anticipates sales worth around Tk 2 crore from Dragon and Malta fruits.
Hailing from Bathangachi village in Maheshpur upazila, Aktaruzzaman, the son of Zainal Abedin, overcame financial challenges and societal responsibilities to pursue his passion.
Inspired by the success story of an entrepreneur trained by the Department of Youth Development, he underwent training through the program. With a loan of Tk 30,000 from the initiative and family contributions, he established Aktaruzzaman Agro Farm in 2010. Starting with papayas and bananas on 15 bighas of land, he expanded to guava cultivation in collaboration with the Youth Development Officer.
By 2016, his farm spanned 50 bighas, housing guava, malta, peya, chhatki oranges, and dragon fruit. The farm's success was evident, generating revenue from lemon sales and projecting significant earnings from dragon fruit. Aktaruzzaman emphasized an annual profit of Tk 50 to 60 lakhs, excluding maintenance costs. His garden, staffed by around 25 workers, attracts entrepreneurs and officials from across the country.
Dragon trees, a sustainable source of yield, flourish with organic fertilizers, supplemented by controlled chemical fertilizers and pesticides for pest management.
Yasmin Sultana, the Agriculture Officer of Maheshpur Upazila, praised Aktaruzzaman's approach for its profitability and job creation for the marginalized. The Agriculture Office provides consistent support, particularly in pest control training for fruit crops.
Aktaruzzaman's journey illustrates the potential of pursuing innovative farming techniques and dedicating oneself to a unique agricultural endeavor. His achievements not only bring financial success but also contribute to the economic empowerment of the local community.
TDM/SD
