The Department of Patents, Designs and Trademarks (DPDT) of Bangladesh's Ministry of Industries has officially designated the pineapples from Madhupur upazila in Tangail as a Geographical Indication (GI) product. This certification, signed by Mumin Hasan, the director general of DPDT, underscores the unique status and origin of Madhupur's pineapples, enhancing their recognition on a global scale.
Mirza Jubair Hossain, the upazila nirbahi officer of Madhupur, highlighted the significance of GI status in bolstering international trade and the pride it brings to the local community. The recognition is expected to open up new markets for Madhupur's pineapples, already popular across Bangladesh, and promote the area's red soil and its agricultural heritage.
The inception of pineapple cultivation in Madhupur traces back to Mizzi Dayamoyi Sangma, a member of the Garo community, who initiated the cultivation with 750 saplings from Meghalaya, India. This move laid the groundwork for what has become a widespread and economically vital activity in the region.
Local stakeholders, including Ajay Mri, a former president of the Joyenshahi Indigenous Development Council, and Shanowar Hossain, a farmer from Garo Bazar, underscored the heritage and potential upliftment of Madhupur's pineapple cultivation following the GI recognition. They advocate for organic farming practices to preserve this heritage and enhance marketability.
Shakura Nami, Madhupur's agricultural officer, explained that the GI status not only solidifies the pineapple's reputation in national and international markets but also boosts efforts towards exporting it. This development marks a significant milestone for the region, promising qualitative improvements in cultivation and expanded export opportunities.
Source: Dhaka Tribune