Khulna farmers expand moringa cultivation on unused land boosting nutrition income and environmental sustainability efforts. Photo : BSS

By S M Zahid Hossain

KHULNA, March 2, 2026 (BSS) - The Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), Khulna Zone, has set a target to produce 9,845 metric tonnes of drumstick (moringa) on 694 hectares of land during the 2025-26 fiscal year, aiming to boost production by 60 percent compared to the previous year.

The initiative is designed to bring fallow and unused land under cultivation, strengthen household nutrition, prevent soil erosion and contribute to environmental protection, Additional Director of DAE Khulna Zone Md Rafiqul Islam told BSS today.

Under the programme, around 1,12,720 farmers in Khulna, Bagerhat, Satkhira and Narail districts will plant drumstick saplings from June to September. Each farmer will plant five saplings on unused land near their homesteads.

As part of the drive, over 24,000 hybrid stem-cuttings of ODC-3 - a high-yielding variety - are being planted along roadsides and vacant lands. The plantation campaign began ahead of Ramadan in Bagerhat and will continue until May.

In addition, 52,220 saplings of an improved local variety will be planted from June to September in line with the seasonal cultivation period.

"Farmers will not only plant the saplings but will also take responsibility for their proper care," Rafiqul Islam said.

District-wise, Khulna has set a target of producing 5,469 tonnes on 357 hectares, with an expected yield of 15.32 tonnes per hectare. Bagerhat aims to produce 2,280 tonnes on 120 hectares with a projected yield of 19 tonnes per hectare.

Satkhira's target stands at 1,639 tonnes on 159 hectares with an expected yield of 10.31 tonnes per hectare, while Narail aims to produce 456 tonnes on 58 hectares with a projected yield of 7.86 tonnes per hectare.

During a recent visit, this correspondent observed ODC-3 stem-cuttings being planted along a three-kilometre stretch of the Khulna-Mongla railway line covering Chara, Sachibunia and Jhorobhanga villages.

District Training Officer of DAE Mahadeb Kumar Saha said lands unsuitable for construction were selected for the agro-initiative. The programme was formally inaugurated on Thursday.

Field visits to Rupsha and Dumuria upazilas revealed widespread cultivation of drumstick at the household level. In Dumuria's 14 unions, most households have two to four drumstick trees in their yards, while many more grow along roadsides.

Farmers said drumstick cultivation requires minimal cost and almost no pesticide use. A branch planted in soil develops roots and grows into a tree, bearing fruit within 10 to 12 months. A mature tree can produce eight to 10 maunds per season, they added.

The vegetable is sold in local markets at Tk 50 to Tk 100 per kilogram. After meeting local demand, traders transport drumsticks to Dhaka and other parts of the country.

Talking to BSS Young entrepreneur Shahadat Mia said he has started commercial cultivation and plans to produce herbal medicine from drumstick leaves, describing it as a highly profitable crop due to low production costs and high yield.

Health experts also highlighted the crop's nutritional value.

Health Officer of Dumuria Upazila Health Complex Dr Kajol Mallik told BSS drumstick is rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, potassium and zinc. It helps control cholesterol, supports hypertension patients and boosts immunity.

Upazila Agriculture Officer Md Nazmul Huda said favourable weather conditions have led to high yields in recent years. This season's production in Dumuria alone is estimated at around 200 metric tonnes, valued at approximately Tk 10 million. The agriculture department is encouraging farmers by distributing saplings.

Professor Dr Monirul Islam of Khulna University's Agro Technology Discipline described Moringa oleifera as one of the most nutrient-dense foods.

"It is rich in micro-nutrients and vital for human health," he said.

Nutritionist Farhana Akter of the Khulna Diabetic Association said drumstick leaves and seeds have long been used for medicinal purposes and have export potential. They are effective in managing joint pain, diabetes and strengthening immunity.

Dr Md Aktaruzzaman of the association said drumstick leaf powder provides natural pain relief, supports muscle recovery and helps regulate blood pressure and cholesterol without harmful side effects.

"Drumstick is not only medicinal but also a delicious and versatile vegetable widely used in local cuisine," he added.