A workshop on modern techniques of commercial papaya cultivation was held in Tangail on the initiative of AgroSAL, a sustainable agricultural input, and technology company. The day-long workshop was held on Wednesday, March 9, with about 50 experienced papaya growers present at Jalchatra Santiniketan Hall room in Madhupur Upazila of Tangail, the country’s top fruit-producing region.
Md. Ahsanul Bashar, Deputy Director, Department of Agricultural Extension, Tangail spoke as the chief guest at the workshop. Krishibid Mahmudul Hasan, Additional Deputy Director (Horticulture), Krishibid Md. Sirajul Islam, Head of Agribusiness, AgroSAL Limited, Md. Abdur Rahim, Chairman, Arankhola Union Parishad were present as special guests at the workshop. The workshop was chaired by agriculturist Sakura Nammi, Agricultural Extension Officer, Madhupur.
The workshop presented in detail various aspects of high-quality papaya cultivation using modern and sustainable inputs and technologies. The importance of producing and using high-quality seedlings in commercial papaya cultivation was highlighted.
Md. Sirajul Islam underlined various benefits of papaya seedlings produced at AgroSAL’s nursery and mentioned that AgroSAL works in the full value chain of papaya. ‘AgroSAL is emphasizing contract farming and safe technology-based farming methods engaging experienced farmers to expand the export-oriented market of ripe papaya,’ He added.
Additional Deputy Director (Horticulture), Mahmudul Hasan, mentioned that by increasing the production and supply of high-quality delicious papaya, it is possible to expand the new consumer class so that farmers can benefit more economically.
In his address, Chief Guest, Md. Ahsanul Bashar, Deputy Director, Department of Agricultural Extension, welcomed the initiative of AgroSAL and said that the importance of improved quality seedlings in tackling the problem of a virus outbreak and seed-borne diseases is immense. He mentioned ‘the use of seedlings produced in modern nurseries can increase the yield as well as improve the taste and quality of the fruits.’
Farmers present at the workshop expressed their enthusiasm to use AgroSAL’s improved quality seedlings and technology as well as to get engaged in contract farming.
