Photo: BSS

CUMILLA, March 12, 2026 (BSS) - Muradnagar upazila of the district has embraced a new agricultural breakthrough with the introduction of high-value capsicum cultivation. 

Under the Sustainable Agricultural Technology Extension Project, local farmers have embarked on cultivating this nutritious vegetable for the first time, creating significant interest and optimism in the region.

The Upazila Agriculture Office reports that capsicum has been planted on approximately two hectares of land as part of a demonstration project during the current Rabi season. This initiative has spread to 14 unions in the area, including Kamalla, Dhamghar, Muradnagar, Bangra East, Nabipur West, Nabipur East and Akabpur Babutipara.

Capsicum, also known for its high vitamin C content, has gained popularity in modern food preparations, including salads, fast foods, and other contemporary dishes. As a result, its market demand has been steadily increasing, offering farmers a lucrative opportunity.

The Agriculture Department estimates that the cost of cultivating capsicum on one bigha of land is between Taka 40,000 and 45,000. However, if managed effectively, farmers can expect a return of Taka 180,000 to 200,000 per bigha, making it an attractive crop for farmers seeking higher profits.

Several local farmers have already ventured into capsicum cultivation with success. Notably, Tajul Islam of Bangra Purba Union, Rafiqul Islam and Amir Hossain from Dhamghar Union, Fatema Begum from Alirchar village, Rakib Uddin from Kamarchar village, and Md. Jamshed Hossain from Babutipara village have all joined the movement.

Amir Hossain, a farmer from Paramatla village, shared his enthusiasm about cultivating capsicum for the first time. "The vegetable is selling well in the market, and I'm hopeful of making a good profit," he said. 

He also praised the support provided by the Upazila Agriculture Office, which has supplied essential agricultural inputs such as organic and chemical fertilizers, poly mulching film, and pesticides.

Muradnagar Upazila Agriculture Officer, Pavel Khan Pappu, expressed optimism about the future of capsicum cultivation in the area. "This is the first time capsicum has been cultivated in Muradnagar, and we are confident that its popularity will continue to grow. As the demand and prices are favorable, we expect the cultivation of this crop to expand in the coming seasons."

The introduction of capsicum cultivation is expected to not only increase the income of Muradnagar's farmers but also open new avenues for agricultural growth in the region. The success of this initiative could serve as a model for other parts of Bangladesh to diversify their agricultural practices and increase farm profitability.

With its promising market potential and the backing of agricultural support, capsicum cultivation is poised to become a cornerstone of Muradnagar's agricultural landscape.