On the sun-kissed fields of Bhandara in Ranisankail municipality, a quiet revolution is taking root as a farmer’s unwavering determination has brought forth an inspiring tale of prosperity and agricultural innovation.
Sohel Rana, a dedicated farmer, has embraced a new frontier in farming—sweet corn cultivation.
His remarkable success has not only filled his own heart with joy but has also ignited the aspirations of fellow farmers, who now glimpse a lucrative future in this promising crop.
A Bumper Harvest, A Blossoming Dream
On a serene Sunday morning, this correspondent visited Sohel’s thriving cornfield, where rows of verdant stalks swayed gently in the breeze.
Their golden cobs, peeking through lush green husks, bore testament to a season of careful toil and bountiful rewards.
With guidance from the Ranisankail Upazila Agriculture Office and under the keen supervision of Spain Bangladesh Agro Industries Limited, Sohel took a leap of faith.
He dedicated 10 decimals of his land to the experimental cultivation of high-yielding sweet corn. The results were nothing short of extraordinary.
"This was my first time cultivating sweet corn on 10 decimals of land, and I obtained a yield of 30 maunds (approximately 1,100 kg)," Sohel shared, his voice brimming with pride.
"Selling at Tk 480 per maund, I earned Tk 14,400. Spain Bangladesh Agro Industries Limited covered all cultivation costs—I only spent around Tk 2,500 on weeding, irrigation, and harvesting," he said.
The allure of sweet corn lies not just in its profitability but also in its efficiency. The crop reaches maturity within a mere 90 days, offering farmers a swift turnaround on their investment.
A Hassle-Free Market and a Vision for Expansion
Unlike traditional crops, where farmers often grapple with market fluctuations and middlemen, Sohel found himself in an enviable position.
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Representatives from Spain Bangladesh Agro Industries Limited purchased the fresh, husked cobs directly from him at Tk 12 per kg, sparing him the usual marketing challenges.
Buoyed by his maiden success, Sohel now harbours grander ambitions.
“Encouraged by the profits, I plan to expand my cultivation to 50 decimals next season,” he revealed.
His triumph has not gone unnoticed. Fellow farmers, once sceptical of the unfamiliar crop, are now eager to tread the same path.
A Crop That Sparks Curiosity and Promise
Local farmer Jahangir Alam, intrigued by the bountiful harvest, confessed, "We had never seen this type of corn before. The high yield and good market price have motivated me to cultivate sweet corn next year."
Another farmer, Abdul Khaleq, echoed the sentiment. "The crop's early harvest and higher weight due to husk inclusion make it a lucrative option," he observed.
Their growing enthusiasm signals a shift in local agricultural practices—one that promises not just financial gains but also sustainable farming opportunities.
A Boon for Farmers, A Gift for Global Markets
Mirza Asaduzzaman, field officer of Spain Bangladesh Agro Industries Limited, shed light on the broader implications of sweet corn cultivation.
"Sweet corn matures in half the time compared to traditional varieties," he noted. "With proper care, farmers can achieve 115-120 maunds per bigha (approximately 33 decimals)," he said.
Beyond its economic appeal, the crop boasts significant nutritional value, packed with carbohydrates, fibre, vitamins A, B, C, iron, and potassium. It is a versatile ingredient, finding its place in boiled dishes, grilled delicacies, soups, and even popcorn.
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Besides, its adaptability allows it to be cultivated in both Rabi and Kharif seasons, further enhancing its desirability among farmers.
The global demand for sweet corn continues to rise, and Spain Bangladesh Agro Industries Limited is capitalising on this trend by exporting processed sweet corn to Spain, China, the USA, and other countries.
The potential for Bangladeshi farmers to contribute to this growing market is immense.
A New Dawn in Agriculture
Ranisankail Upazila Agriculture Officer Shahidul Islam described Sohel’s initiative as a milestone for the region.
“This was the first demonstration of sweet corn cultivation in the area by Spain Bangladesh Agro Industries,” he said.
Highlighting the multi-faceted benefits of the crop, he added, "Sweet corn is a high-value, nutrient-rich crop with export potential. Its early harvest allows farmers to use the plant as silage for cattle and grow other crops afterward."
The impact of Sohel’s success story is already visible. Many farmers, once hesitant, are now eager to embrace sweet corn cultivation, heralding a new era of agricultural innovation in Thakurgaon.
As golden cobs continue to flourish under the vast Bangladeshi sky, Sohel’s journey stands as a beacon of hope.
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His steadfast resolve has not only secured his own prosperity but has also paved the way for a brighter, more bountiful future for farmers across the region.