Returnee entrepreneur Russell Hossain succeeds in orange farming, inspiring youth and expanding agriculture-based employment opportunities. Photo : BSS

MADARIPUR, Dec 13, 2025 (BSS) - Young entrepreneur Russell Hossain has emerged as a successful example of orange farming in Shibchar upazila of the district, creating new opportunities for agriculture-based employment after returning home from abroad.
 
Russell has transformed his family's hobby garden into a profitable orange orchard in the Dattapara Mridhakandi area of the upazila. At a time when many returnee expatriates struggle to find employment, his initiative has drawn attention for demonstrating how modern farming practices can ensure sustainable income.
 
The journey began six years ago when Russell's father Shawkat Hossain planted 60 small-variety orange saplings on about one and a half bigha of land. Initially, the orchard did not attract much interest due to low yields. 
 
However, after Russell took charge of the orchard in late 2021, the scenario changed significantly.
 
By studying citrus cultivation online, consulting with the agriculture department and adopting modern techniques, Russell improved fertilizer and irrigation management, pest and disease control, pruning and soil development. As a result, the orchard flourished in 2024, producing high-quality oranges.

Although production slightly declined this year due to weather variations, Russell said the taste and quality have improved. 
 
"The sourness has reduced and sweetness has increased, which has boosted demand," he said. Oranges from the garden are currently selling at Taka 280 to 300 per kilogram in both wholesale and retail markets, with many buyers visiting the orchard directly.
 
Local resident Emon Hossain told BSS that Russell's success would inspire young people in the area to engage in agriculture instead of remaining unemployed. 
 
Another visitor, Mohsin Talukder, praised the orchard, saying the quantity and taste of oranges this year were impressive.
 
Buyers said the orchard has gained popularity as a reliable source of locally produced, formalin-free oranges. The fruit is also sold online, attracting customers from different parts of the country.
 

Sharing his future plans, Russell said oranges are cultivated on about 1 bigha 33 decimal of land, alongside malta, guava and other fruits. "If we receive government support, it will be possible to expand on a larger scale," he added.
 
Shibchar Upazila Agriculture Officer Rafiqul Islam said the department is providing regular advice to local entrepreneurs. 
 
"We are distributing quality seedlings, promoting modern technology and facilitating agricultural credit. Citrus fruit cultivation is becoming increasingly popular in this region," he said.
 
According to the local agriculture department, cultivation of perennial fruits such as orange, malta and lemon has been rising in Shibchar in recent years. Russell Hossain's success has not only increased his family income but also inspired local youth to view agriculture as a viable and promising profession.