By Nurul Haque from Mymensingh

Young farmer Sirajul Islam from Sadhupara village under Kamaria Union in Tarakanda Upazila, Mymensingh, has been awarded as the best farmer at the divisional level. He was awarded for his remarkable success in diversified crop cultivation and innovative farming practices,

On May 31, Sirajul received the award at a divisional workshop held at the Syed Nazrul Islam Auditorium of Bangladesh Agricultural University in Mymensingh. The event was organized under the “Crop Intensification Project” of the Ministry of Agriculture, where 51 farmers and officials from the Mymensingh division participated.

Md. Mahbubul Haque Patwari, Additional Secretary (Planning Wing) of the Ministry of Agriculture, attended the event as the chief guest. University professors, deputy directors of the Department of Agricultural Extension from five districts, upazila agriculture officers, farmers, and female farmers participated in the event as special guests and participants.

However, it is to be mentioned that Sirajul has been involved with Sadhupara Krishak Sangathan and Sadhupara People’s Development Center for over 12 years. His home, part of the “Shatobari” initiative, is an example of year-round farming. He grows a wide range of vegetables, fruits, medicinal plants, and local rice varieties. He sells the extra prdouces in local markets earning him additional cash and does share with relatives as well. He also conserves native seeds and exchanges them with fellow farmers, providing guidance and support.

His homestead boasts 25 species of fruit trees including mango, jackfruit, guava, and lychee and over 15 types of medicinal plants like neem, haritaki, and bashok. Throughout the year, he cultivates over 30 varieties of crops including potato, brinjal, pumpkin, okra, turmeric, onion, garlic, and leafy greens.

Inspired by Sirajul’s achievements, many fellow villagers have started family-based farming in their own homesteads, following his advices and suggestions.