Munshiganj: The cultivation of winter vegetables has gained momentum across Munshiganj as farmers engage in preparing seedbeds, producing seedlings, and selling them in large quantities. Favorable weather conditions have boosted production prospects, raising hopes for profitable returns this season.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the District Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) has set a target of 4,900 hectares for winter vegetable cultivation in the district. The upazila-wise targets include 969 hectares in Sadar, 500 in Tongibari, 670 in Srinagar, 1,602 in Sirajdikhan, 425 in Louhajang, and 734 in Gazaria upazila.
The district aims to produce 125,423 tons of winter vegetables this season. As part of government incentives, 1,500 homestead farmers and 2,700 field farmers have received seeds and fertilizers to support cultivation and seedling production.
Farmers mainly produce and market seedlings of cauliflower, cabbage, gourd, tomato, broccoli, pumpkin, red cabbage, spinach, and radish. Many are already experiencing increased demand due to the high quality of seedlings grown in Munshiganj.
Dulal Sikder, a farmer from Bhattacharyarbagh village in Panchasar union, said he has cultivated seedlings on 42 percent of his land this season, investing around Taka 8 lakh. "Seedling production requires extra care, but the profit margin is high," he stated.
Another farmer, Kamal Sheikh of Dhalagaon village under Rampal union, noted that highland areas in Munshiganj allow growers to produce seedlings three to four times a season on the same land. Due to their superior quality, seedlings from the district are in high demand across the country. After meeting local needs, they are supplied to major wholesale hubs in Keraniganj, Savar, Manikganj, Sylhet, Comilla, Habiganj, Chandpur, Barisal, and other districts.
Dr. Md. Habibur Rahman, Deputy Director of DAE, mentioned that the government has distributed seeds and fertilizers as incentives to support farmers this season. "Due to favorable weather, the yield has been promising. Winter vegetable seedling production has become a profitable sector here," he explained. He added that the use of organic fertilizer enhances seedling quality, enabling Munshiganj to supply seedlings to 25 districts nationwide while fulfilling local demand.