Faridpur Jute Cultivation Exceeds Target as Yields Soar

Jute farmers in Faridpur’s Madhukhali Upazila are eyeing a highly promising harvest this season, driven by timely rainfall, government incentives, and strong market prices.

According to the Upazila Agriculture Office, jute was cultivated across 8,655 hectares of land this year, successfully exceeding the official target of 8,650 hectares. Cultivation saw significant expansion across the municipal areas and several unions, including Raipur, Megchami, Korkadi, Bagat, and Kamarkhali.

Local farmers report healthy crop growth but highlight a persistent challenge: a severe shortage of open water bodies for retting (rotting) the jute.

"The jute plants grew exceptionally well because of early rains," said Milton, a farmer from Salamatpur village in Kamarkhali. "However, with local ponds and canals being filled up, we are forced to reuse the same limited water bodies multiple times. This delay in the retting process ultimately hurts the quality of the fiber."

To boost production, the government has been distributing free seeds and fertilizers under the “Advanced Technology Based Jute and Jute Seed Production and Expansion Project.” Farmers are also receiving hands-on training in modern agricultural techniques.

Kartik Kumar, a farmer from Pach Korkadi village, shared that his jute plants have already reached heights of 4 to 6 feet. "If the weather holds up, we are expecting an excellent yield and great returns on both the fiber and jute sticks," he said.

Upazila Agriculture Officer Md. Mahbub Elahi confirmed that regular field supervision and advisory services are being provided to ensure success. "Thanks to favorable weather and proper management, we are highly optimistic that our farmers will secure excellent market prices this season," Elahi added.