NARAYANGANJ, Mar 25: Farmers in Narayanganj are increasingly turning to broccoli cultivation, attracted by the vegetable's high nutritional value and strong market demand.
Resembling cauliflower with dense green florets, broccoli is rich in vitamins and minerals. With relatively low labour and capital investment, farmers are finding it a profitable crop, prompting growing interest in commercial cultivation across the district.
Although broccoli is widely popular in developed countries as a cancer-preventive superfood, it has not yet become mainstream in Bangladesh. However, the vegetable is slowly gaining a place in the national diet. Observing farmers' interest, the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) has launched several initiatives to expand broccoli production. In Narayanganj Sadar, cultivation is underway in the Boktaboli and Charkashipur areas.
Local farmers said that a single planting can yield harvests three times, making broccoli increasingly attractive. "We are seeing good returns in a short period, and the market price is favourable," they said. Most farmers are cultivating broccoli organically, which keeps pest and disease risks low, and the potential profit can be up to three times the production cost.
Many farmers who previously succeeded with cauliflower and cabbage have now begun commercial broccoli cultivation with support from the Upazila DAE office. Initial yields have been promising, and demand in local markets remains high, ensuring good prices.
Lailun Nahar, Deputy Assistant Agriculture Officer of Narayanganj Sadar, said, "Broccoli is a high-potential superfood crop. Its nutritional benefits are higher than most vegetables. We are encouraging farmers to adopt it."
Mohammad Mamunur Rashid, Assistant Agriculture Extension Officer, added that farmers are using modern cultivation techniques. "The variety being grown is the 'Barbara' cultivar. Farmers have reported good returns. However, pollution from nearby brick kilns is reducing production in some areas."
Agriculture Extension Officer Mohammad Rafiqul Islam said, "Due to good market prices, broccoli cultivation is proving profitable. The Department is promoting the use of new technologies to increase production further and help farmers gain higher income."
With growing awareness of broccoli's health benefits and increasing consumer demand, farmers in Narayanganj are optimistic that this nutrient-rich crop can become a reliable and profitable addition to their production portfolio.
