Photo : BSS

PATUAKHALI, Jan 4, 2026 (BSS) - Farmers of Dashmina upazila of the district are witnessing a new era in agriculture as the cultivation of Balsundari, Apple and Kashmiri plum gains popularity, creating fresh opportunities for income and rural prosperity.

Mixed fruit gardens across the upazila have turned lush green, with branches laden with different varieties of plum alongside mango, watermelon and winter vegetables such as brinjal, cauliflower and potatoes. The encouraging yield and strong market demand have raised hopes of higher profits among local farmers this season.

Local agricultural entrepreneur Ranjit Chandra Das, 38, from Alipura union said he invested around Taka 4 lakh in cultivating apple plum, mango, watermelon and other crops. "The demand for apple plum and kashmiri plum is very high. Even after covering the expenses, I am expecting a good profit," he said, adding that wholesalers from Dhaka and other districts are showing keen interest.

Another farmer, Md. Hasan, 39, said commercial plum cultivation is increasing steadily in the area due to suitable soil conditions. "Although the improved apple plum trees are small, they give very good yields. Farmers who were initially hesitant are now seeing profits," he said.

According to the Upazila Agriculture Office, plum prices remain satisfactory this season. In retail markets, plum is selling at Taka 70 to 150 per kg, while wholesale prices range between Taka 60 and 125 per kg. Balsundari and apple plum varieties fetch comparatively higher prices, while sour varieties sell at Taka 45 to 90 per kg depending on quality and season.

Farmer Shah Alam Mia, 50, said wholesalers from Jashore, Khulna and Barishal are directly purchasing plum from Dashmina markets. "Demand is high, and prices are good this year," he said.

Local trader Rafiq Ullah, 45, also confirmed brisk sales, noting that daily collections by wholesalers have increased significantly, especially for markets in Dhaka and other major cities.

Farmer Sohag Hossain, 35, from Chhota Baishidiya said cultivation costs are relatively low compared to profits. "Along with plum, mango, watermelon and winter vegetables are contributing to overall income," he said.

Upazila Agriculture Officer and agriculturist Md. Zafar Ahmed said the soil and weather conditions in Dashmina are highly favorable for plum and other fruit cultivation. "We are providing technical support and advice to farmers across seven unions. Due to favorable weather and improved varieties, yields have been very good," he said.

He added that alongside plum, successful cultivation of winter vegetables, watermelon and mango is also strengthening mixed farming systems in the district.

With favorable natural conditions, improved varieties, government support and sustained market demand, plum cultivation in Dashmina is no longer experimental but has emerged as a profitable and sustainable agricultural practice. 

Stakeholders believe that with proper planning and fair pricing, this sector will further strengthen the rural economy and help farmers become more self-reliant in the coming years.