Dhaka: Many unemployed youths in Bangladesh are finding new opportunities by engaging in agriculture, particularly through the cultivation of dragon fruit. This shift is helping them become self-reliant and change their lives.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, district correspondents, the cultivation of dragon fruit has significantly expanded over the years, especially in the districts of Rajshahi, Natore, Bogura, Naogaon, and Chapainawabganj. Mizanur Rahman Mithu, from the Sariakandi upazila of Bogura, is one such success story. He grew dragon fruits on eight bighas of land and sold them for about Taka 25 lakh last year. Mithu's success has inspired other youths in his locality, many of whom are now taking practical training from him.
Sariakandi upazila agriculture officer Abdul Halim noted that interest in dragon fruit cultivation is growing, with many youths showing enthusiasm. The upazila office is offering support to these new farmers, contributing to a decline in unemployment in the area. Mizanur Rahman has even recruited some unemployed youths for his farm, further fostering new agricultural entrepreneurs in Sariakandi.
Champa Begum from Baniali village in Jashore sadar upazila turned to dragon fruit farming after her husband Enamul Hossain became incapacitated due to a road accident, and her son Yeasin required regular medical treatment. Initially shocked by the fruit's high price, Champa decided to cultivate dragon fruits herself. Starting with just two saplings, she expanded her cultivation and sold dragon fruits worth over Taka 2.5 lakh last year. Her efforts have enabled her to provide for her family and maintain a good livelihood.
In another example, Dhaka University student Mahfuz Talukder earned Taka two lakh this year from his dragon fruit farm in Sakhipur upazila of Tangail. Talukder, an undergraduate student in the Chemistry Department, aims to offer consumers chemical and formalin-free fruits. He anticipates even greater earnings next year due to a promising dragon fruit yield.