A bumper yield of groundnuts in the vast charlands of Padma River in Shibchar has brought a new ray of hope to local farmers this season. Following the successful harvest, farmers – both men and women – are now busy lifting the nuts from the fields, drying them in sun, and preparing them for preservation.
With production proving highly satisfactory, growers are optimistic about securing fair prices for their produce.
The fertile sandy and silt soil of Padma charlands is exceptionally well-suited for groundnut cultivation.
Farmers have successfully ensured the desired output through regular weeding and necessary care, notably without the use of chemical fertilisers or pesticides. This year’s success is attributed to favourable weather conditions, providing much-needed relief after last year’s heavy rainfall and early monsoons caused extensive damage to the crops.
Hamid Kha, a farmer from Char Janajat area, expressed his optimism that this year’s harvest would allow farmers to recover their previous losses.
The groundnuts produced in Padma charlands are renowned for their superior taste, size, and quality compared to those from other regions. As the harvest enters its final stages, the fields are buzzing with activity as farmers separate the nuts from the roots.
Amin Uddin, a local groundnut grower, noted that many farmers are already selling their produce early to capitalise on the strong demand in local and surrounding markets.
According to Shibchar office of Department of Agricultural Extension, groundnuts were cultivated on approximately 690 hectares of land in the upazila during current fiscal year. Of this, 120 hectares were cultivated in Char Janajat Union alone.
Production has increased compared to the previous year, with an average yield of approximately 2,300 kg per hectare. Currently, groundnuts are being sold in the market for between Tk6,000 and Tk8,000 per maund.
Beyond Char Janajat, groundnut farming is also being carried out extensively in several other unions, including Madborerchar, Kathalbari, Sannyasirchar, Bandarkhola, Baheratala North, Baheratala South, Nilkhi, and Shiruail.
Shibchar Upazila Agriculture Officer Alimuzzaman said the scope of groundnut cultivation in the region is expanding every year due to the high level of farmer interest, favourable weather, and the suitability of the charland soil.
