The New Nation - Internet Edition

UNB, Bandarban

Cultivation of 'Red Lady' variety papaya has been gaining popularity among the growers in the hill district as it proved profitable for them.

Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) sources said cultivation of this variety of papaya has been increasing here due to favourable climate.

According to the DAE, a total of 3,900 hectares of land have been brought under papaya cultivation, mostly "Red Lady" variety, in the current season.

Deputy Director of Agro-service centre Md Idris said farmers have achieved success cultivating this variety of papaya in Chimbuk, Porapara, Basantapara, Noapara and Baganpara areas.

"Production of papaya for last several years have changed our socio-economic condition," said grower Taiya Mro.

Agronomists said 40 kgs of Red Lady variety papaya could be produced from a tree yearly only spending Tk 175.

Growers here are showing their interest in cultivating papaya on their lands because its low production cost.

World Vision, an NGO, along with Agricultural Extension Department, is also working here to extend papaya cultivation.