Cultivation of maize on previously uncultivated land in Habiganj results in a bumper yield. Photo: TDM
In a remarkable turn of events, farmers in the Nabiganj upazila of Habiganj district are experiencing a transformative shift in their fortunes by venturing into maize cultivation on previously uncultivated land. Hundreds of hectares of fallow cropland, once considered unproductive and detrimental to its fertility, have now become a source of hope and prosperity for the agricultural community. Thanks to the guidance and cooperation of the Agriculture Office, an increasing number of individuals are achieving remarkable success through the cultivation of corn.
Over the past few years, farmers in various upazilas of Habiganj district have shown a burgeoning interest in maize cultivation on these fallow fields. This year alone, an impressive 652 hectares of land have been dedicated to corn cultivation in the district, with Nabiganj upazila accounting for a significant portion. The maize crops have yielded bumper harvests, enabling farmers to generate substantial profits.
The allure of maize cultivation lies in its low-cost nature and the substantial returns it offers. With a cultivation cost ranging from Tk 10 to 12 market per bigha of land, farmers can harvest an impressive yield of 30 to 35 maunds of maize per bigha.
Moreover, the market price for maize stands at Tk 1200 per mound, making it a lucrative venture. Furthermore, corn plants can be sold as both fuel and cattle feed silage, providing additional sources of income for farmers.
The success stories of farmers like Lokman Khan from Baithakhal village in Debpara union have inspired others to follow suit. Khan, who initially cultivated maize and silage on 52 bighas of land, has now achieved self-sufficiency and even expanded his land holdings.
The ripple effect of his accomplishments has sparked a surge of interest in maize and silage cultivation among fellow farmers in the village. If adequately supported by the government, the next season could witness maize cultivation spreading across even larger areas.
Expressing his future plans, Lokman Khan aspires to increase his corn cultivation on a larger scale. In addition to his personal farming endeavors, he intends to provide employment opportunities for the unemployed youth in the area through maize cultivation. This strategy not only promises to reduce unemployment but also strengthen the local economy.
Mohammad Kazi Mojibur Rahman, Deputy Director of the Sylhet region's Agriculture Extension Directorate, emphasized the significance of regular exchange meetings with farmers and public representatives to encourage maize cultivation on fallow land.
TDM/SD
