Kushtia Correspondent

Farmers in Rajbari district have placed a strong emphasis on garlic cultivation this year, encouraged by the substantial profits reaped in previous seasons.

Taking advantage of the fertile soil of the district, growers have expanded garlic farming beyond the official target set for this year. Agricultural experts suggest that the increased cultivation may lead to higher yields, boosting both local supply and farmer incomes.

Authorities are optimistic that the trend will contribute positively to the region’s agricultural economy, with farmers hoping for favourable weather conditions to ensure a successful harvest.

Garlic is being grown across five upazilas—Rajbari Sadar, Baliakandi, Kalukhali, Goalanda, and Pangsha—covering a total of 3,600 hectares of land. This marks an increase of 100 hectares compared to last year’s 3,500 hectares.

Farmers have planted high-yielding Burmese and BARI-5, which offer better productivity per hectare and make higher market prices.

According to agricultural officials, favourable weather conditions have contributed to a promising yield this year.

Rashiduzzaman Khan Tutul, a garlic farmer from Islampur Union in Baliakandi upazila has cultivated garlic on his1.5 bighas of land.

He mentioned that production costs have increased by Tk3,000–Tk4,000 per bigha compared to last year. Due to rising costs of garlic seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, and insecticides, he has spent over Tk55, 000 for cultivation this year, whereas last year, he managed within Tk45,000.

He expects a yield of 2 maunds of garlic per decimal, projecting a total harvest of 60–70 maunds from his 1.5 bighas.

“If market prices range from Tk3,000 to Tk4,000 per maund, I hope to sell my garlic for over Tk200, 000,” shared this farmer.

Similarly, another farmer, Mohammad Selim, shared his expectation. He has cultivated garlic on 2 bighas of land and expects to earn over Tk100,000 per bigha, even if prices drop to Tk80 to Tk100 per kg or Tk4,000 per maund.

Currently, locally grown garlic is selling for over Tk200 per kg. Farmers expect prices to decline during peak season, but even at half the current rate, they believe garlic cultivation will remain profitable.

Golam Rosul, Training Officer at the Rajbari District Agricultural Extension Department, highlighted that steady market demand and high yields have encouraged farmers to cultivate high-yielding varieties such as BARI-5 and Burmese garlic in recent years.

“To maximize their profits, many farmers store garlic at home. Rajbari has around 40 storage facilities where they can keep their produce and sell it when prices are more favourable,” he added.