United News of Bangladesh

Faridpur, known for its vast paddy fields and jute production, is gradually emerging as a promising hub for commercial mango cultivation, offering farmers and entrepreneurs a lucrative alternative in the district’s agricultural landscape.Driven by modern farming techniques, technical support from the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) and growing market demand, mango orchards are expanding rapidly across several upazilas of the district, transforming the region into a rising fruit-producing zone.As commercial mango cultivation continues to gain momentum, many see it as a symbol of the district’s evolving agricultural economy – one that is diversifying beyond traditional crops and creating new opportunities for rural income and entrepreneurship.For local farmers, the success of mango farming is not only boosting profits but also redefining Faridpur’s agricultural identity.According to the DAE, mangoes have been cultivated on nearly 200 hectares of land in Faridpur during the current season, with a production target of around 2,000 tonnes. The projected market value of the harvest will exceed Tk 16 crore.The produce is expected to meet local demand while also being supplied to different districts across the country.Large-scale mango orchards have sprung up in parts of Madhukhali, Boalmari and Sadar upazilas. At present, the orchards present a vibrant picture, with trees laden with ripe and semi-ripe mangoes.Agriculture officials say the adoption of improved mango varieties and modern orchard management practices has significantly enhanced both production and fruit quality.For many growers, mango cultivation is proving to be a profitable venture.Kamal Hossain, a mango farmer from Jahapur area in Madhukhali upazila, said production costs for mangoes are comparatively lower than many other crops.“If weather conditions remain favourable, growers can earn a satisfactory profit. That is why new farmers and entrepreneurs are joining mango cultivation every year,” he said.The growing reputation of Faridpur mangoes is also attracting buyers from different areas.Visitors to local orchards, including Alimuzzaman and Abul Hasnat, praised the taste and quality of the fruit.Faridpur mangoes are sweet, delicious and of excellent quality. Their popularity in the market is increasing day by day, said a customer.Agriculture officials attribute the sector’s progress to coordinated support efforts.Deputy Director of Faridpur DAE Md Shahaduzzaman said farmers are receiving improved saplings, technical guidance and regular monitoring from authorities.“We are providing growers with quality planting materials and modern cultivation advice. With these initiatives, we expect mango farming in Faridpur to achieve even greater success in the coming years,” he said.Sadar Upazila Agriculture Officer Md Anwar Hussain believes the district possesses all the essential elements needed for sustainable expansion of mango production.“The combination of fertile soil, favourable weather conditions and farmers’ growing interest has created strong prospects for mango cultivation in Faridpur,” he said.With proper planning, improved storage facilities and an efficient marketing system, Faridpur could eventually become one of Bangladesh’s leading fruit-producing regions, Anwar added.