A lotkon orchard that changes a family's fate

TANGAIL, July 21: A lotkon (Burmese grape) orchard planted by a man on abandoned land in Madhupur Upazila of Tangail has become the primary source of income for his family following his death, helping them achieve financial stability.

The late Matiur Rahman, a resident of Loufula Village under Alokdia Union, established the orchard on 33 decimals of unused land around eight years ago by planting more than 100 lotkon saplings.

According to family members, Matiur, who worked for a non-governmental organisation (NGO), struggled to support his family on a limited income. Hoping to secure a better future, he invested in the orchard, which began bearing fruit about three years later.

Matiur died around two years ago, leaving behind his wife and two sons. The family now depends on income from the orchard.

His eldest son, Lam Alif, who is studying at Madhupur College, currently manages the orchard.

"The orchard has yielded well this year, and we are earning a good income by selling the fruit every day. It has freed us from financial hardship," he said.
Abul Hossain, Matiur's younger brother, said many people had discouraged Matiur from planting the orchard.

"Today, the orchard has made his family financially self-reliant. Although my brother is no longer alive, he left behind a permanent source of income for his family," he said.

Officials of the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) said commercial lotkon cultivation is expanding in Tangail, particularly in Madhupur and Ghatail upazilas, where the red-soil and slightly elevated terrain are well suited for the crop.

Ramzan Ali, Additional Deputy Director of the DAE in Tangail, said the crop has strong commercial potential and is contributing to the local economy.

"The agriculture department is providing farmers with technical support and advice. With proper management and improved marketing facilities, lotkon cultivation could create greater economic opportunities for more farmers," he said.