In a noteworthy development within the agricultural sector, farmers from Morigaon district in Assam have embarked on the export of 12 tons of watermelons to Bihar. This initiative, spearheaded by the district's agriculture department, aims to augment watermelon cultivation in the area.
Hemanta Deka, a forward-thinking farmer from Bardia village, part of the Mayong agriculture circle, has successfully cultivated watermelons on his land spanning three bighas. Deka utilized the improved Indus variety seeds, a provision from the department, and managed to commercialize his harvest at a rate of approximately $0.12 per kilogram in the Bihar market.
Concurrently, Lohit Deka, another avant-garde farmer from the same locale, ventured into musk melon cultivation with notable success. Employing the improved Mridula variety seeds, also supplied by the department, he cultivated musk melons on three bighas of land. His efforts culminated in a selling price of approximately $0.61 per kilogram in the local market. The district agriculture department extended comprehensive support to Deka, including the provision of seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides. This initiative has not only yielded financial benefits for Deka but has also inspired neighboring farmers to consider musk melon cultivation.
The concerted efforts by the Morigaon district agriculture department to foster watermelon and musk melon cultivation have significantly contributed to the financial prosperity of local farmers. Furthermore, these endeavors have facilitated the introduction of the region's agricultural products into broader markets, thereby enhancing their visibility and demand.
Source: The Assam Tribune