Farmers of Atrai upazila in Naogaon are expecting a bumper crop of potato this season, as the plants are thriving this year.
Local farmers prioritized cultivating potato, along with Ropa Aman paddy, because flash floods were less of a problem last year. They were inspired to cultivate potatoes after being provided agricultural equipment, fertilizer, and guidelines—free of cost—as part of a government initiative.
Along with government support, the farmers also made significant efforts for a good potato harvest.
According to sources of the upazila agriculture office, potato cultivation exceeded the targeted farmland allocation of 2,800 hectors in the eight unions of this upazila.
“The farmers were also provided with technical support and guidelines, which significantly lowered infections and diseases that commonly affect the harvest,” Upazila Deputy Assistant Agriculture Office Shafi Uddin told the correspondent.
Farmers of several upazilas, including Shahagola and Moniyari had planted a large number of potatoes, said a source from the local agricultural office.
Speaking to the Dhaka Tribune, farmer Akkas Ali of Rasulpur village said: “I planted potatoes on two acres of farmland. The harvest looks good, and I am optimistic that I will make a hefty profit this year.”
Echoing the same opinion, farmer Sultanur Alam said: “I planted potatoes on more than 3 acres of farmland. So far, my crops are unaffected by natural disasters and diseases. I am hoping for a large harvest this season.”
