Dumuria upazila: Dumuria upazila, recognized as the granary of Khulna, reports a bumper production of winter vegetables this season, achieving an estimated market value of Tk 250 crore. Local farmers and agricultural officials attribute this success to the adoption of modern technologies in vegetable and seed cultivation.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Dumuria's pesticide-free and safe vegetables are now being exported abroad, bringing satisfaction to local farmers as their produce reaches international markets. Rising demand and favorable market prices have encouraged many farmers to expand vegetable cultivation annually. Early-season crops, in particular, are generating higher profits, aided by favorable weather conditions.
The landscape is covered with rows of bottle gourds, beans, cauliflowers, cabbages, turnips, chilies, spinach, and various leafy greens, as farmers work diligently from dawn to dusk. Many farmers have achieved self-reliance through vegetable farming. National Krishi Padak winner Abu Hanif Morol from Kharnia stated that this year's yield, especially for cauliflower, cabbage, tomato, bean, and eggplant, has been excellent with good market prices.
Kamal Bawali from Malmalia village reported cultivating beans, tomatoes, and turnips on six bighas of land, resulting in significant profit. He proudly mentioned that Dumuria's vegetables are now being exported abroad. Abdul Halim, a member of Bamundia ward, emphasized the agriculture department's support in providing training, fertilizer, and seed assistance, leading to bumper yields and international exports.
Upazila Agriculture Officer Md Insan Ibne Amin confirmed the good harvest, noting that 3,650 hectares have been cultivated, including beans, tomatoes, eggplants, and cauliflower. Dumuria's produce not only meets local demand but is also supplied to Dhaka's Karwan Bazar, with exports to Italy, England, and South Korea.
Overall, this season's production is a significant milestone, with 4,88,468 tonnes of winter vegetables produced from 36,735.47 hectares of land, with an average yield rate of 20 tonnes per hectare. Additional Director of the Department of Agriculture, Khulna Zone, Md Rafiqul Islam, highlighted the role of the agriculture department in assisting farmers with fertilizers, seeds, and training. He also noted that Khulna's vegetables play a crucial role in meeting the country's demand during crisis periods like floods and heavy rains.