JOYPURHAT, Apr 18: "Sabri" banana farming is expanding fast across Joypurhat district.
The farmers who were cultivated Boro, T-Aman rice and different vegetables in high cropland have started "Sabri" banana farming as its cultivation is more lucrative.
According to Department of Agriculture Extension (DAE) office sources, the farmers have cultivated banana on 785 hectares of land this season. The farming area may exceed next year if they get fair price, DAE added.
The soil and atmosphere of Akkelpur and sadar upazilas are most suitable for banana growing. Besides, the peasants of the two upazilas were seen engaged with banana farming aiming at more profit.
The farmers are bringing the sapling of "Sabri" banana from the different neighbouring districts as demand for this type of banana is increasing day by day. Each sapling is being sold at Tk 30 to 50.
"The farmers of the region are selling each kg of the fruit at Tk 60 to 70 in the retail markets while Tk 55 to 58 in the wholesale markets across the district," said wholesaler Muminur Rahman under Akkelpur upazila.
"I have cultivated "Sabri" banana on 44 decimals of land spending Tk 23,000 this season," said farmer Lokman Hossain under sadar upazila of the district.
"I have sold the fruits at Tk 44,000 and expecting to get Tk 50000 from the rest of fruits." He added.
Deputy Director of DAE Sudhindranath Roy said "Sabri" banana variety is gaining momentum across the region as its cultivation is easier and profitable.” We encourage the farmers to grow the fruits in a vast tract, he added.
