BOGURA, Apr 22: Aloevera, locally known as Ghritkumari, cultivation is gaining popularity in Shajahanpur upazila of the district. A good number of poor farmers have improved their socio-economic condition by growing the item in recent time.
Sources said aloevera cultivation process is easy. It can be harvested after three years of its plantation. Cultivators of the area are gradually expanding aloevera production due to high market price.
"I started aloevera farming on 11 decimals of land ten years ago. I brought the saplings from nearby Natore district," said farmer Abdul Akanda of Maria village.
The farmer said he has been making a good profit from his aloevera land every year. Each kg of leaf is being sold at Tk 25 to Tk 30 in the market.
Another farmer Zabed Ali said he has brought some one and a half bigha of land under aloevera farming. He said growers would be more benefited if representatives of different companies collect the item from the peasants directly.
Sources said aloevera keeps skin fresh and smooth as it contains Anthocyanin glycosides. Doctors suggest drink its juice to get rid of gout and joint pain.
Upazila agriculture officer Ahsan Shaheed Sarker said, "We are unable to ensure adequate agri-service to the farmers due to scarcity of staffs."
The official expressed the hope that the problem will be solved soon.
