Manikganj: Jute cultivation has surpassed its predetermined target across all seven upazilas in the district during the current season. The Department of Agriculture Extension reported that jute was cultivated on 4,576 hectares of land in the district, exceeding the initial target of 4,530 hectares. This cultivation aims to produce 13,476 metric tons, or 67,380 bales of jute fiber.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the land distribution for jute cultivation included 3,755 hectares for Tosha, 798 hectares for local varieties, 18 hectares for Mesta, and 5 hectares for Kenaf. The timely provision of quality seeds, fertilizers, and other agricultural inputs contributed to surpassing the target. Furthermore, cultivators are benefiting from reasonable prices for their produce.
Ahmad Ali, a jute cultivator from Char Gobindopur in Singair Upazila, remarked on jute's status as the district's primary cash crop, noting its additional uses for fencing and as firewood, which maintain its demand in rural areas. Deputy Director of Agriculture Extension Mohammad Shah Jahan Shiraj highlighted that the profitable prices of jute continue to attract cultivators, reinforcing its role as a significant cash crop in the district.
The Department of Agriculture Extension also indicated that most jute cultivation occurs in Singair Upazila, where the soil conditions are favorable for jute farming.