The Department of Agriculture Extension (DAE) had taken a massive programme to cultivate jute at 11 upazilas in Kishoreganj district in the current 2019-20 summer season.
According to DAE sources, a total of 17811 hectares of land would be brought under the cultivation in the district with a production target of 180598 bales of jute. Of the total 2251 hectares would be brought under 'Deshi' variety, 8950 hectares under 'Tosha' variety, 6,100 hectares under 'Kenaf' variety and 510 hectares under 'Mechhta' variety.
In the district, 2105 hectares of land would be brought under the cultivation in Hossainpur upazila, 2185 hectares in Kishoreganj Sadar, 1260 hectares in Pakundia, 2270 hectares in Katiadi, 4695 hectares in Karimganj, 690 hectares in Tarail, 670 hectares in Nikli, 11 hectares in Austagram, 1290 hectares in Bajitpur, 1435 hectares in Kuliarchar and 1200 hectares in Bhaira upazila.
The farmers of 11 upazilas in Kishoreganj district cultivated mainly 'Tosa' and 'Deshi' varieties of jute. Besides, farmers also cultivated fabric variety of 'Kenaf' and 'Mechhta' jutes in the district.
Dr Mohit Kumar, Deb Deputy Director (In-charge) of DAE in Kishoreganj said that the government had already distributed adequate seedlings, fertilizers, pesticides and different agricultural ingredients among the farmers.
Besides, different commercial banks including Bangladesh Krishi Bank and NGO's provided loans facility among the farmers.