Photo: BSS

CUMILLA, Jan 8, 2026 (BSS) - The Agriculture Department has breathed new life into long-abandoned hilly land at Rajarkhala of Bijoypur union in Sadar Dakshin upazila of the district.

Through a carefully planned initiative, approximately 10 hectares of previously uncultivated land have been transformed into mixed fruit gardens and cultivated with a variety of cash crops.

A visit to the site reveals a striking transformation: what was once overgrown with bushes is now a lush green landscape. Crops such as Baromasi mango, plum, dragon fruit, G-9 variety banana, cotton, coffee, cashew nuts, and pineapple are now thriving. Thanks to modern farming techniques and regular maintenance, the lands are showing strong yield potential.

Local farmers Abu Taher and Imam Hossain shared that these lands were previously considered useless. With guidance and support from the Agriculture Department, they have embraced the cultivation of new crops, creating employment opportunities and providing a path toward financial growth.

Deputy Assistant Agriculture Officer of Rajarkhala Block, Mohammad Ahsanul Islam, explained that suitable crops were selected based on careful soil analysis. 
“Proper fertilizer management and the adoption of modern farming methods have made high yields possible,” he said, adding that the initiative ensures the sustainable use of hilly land.

Sadar Dakshin Upazila Agriculture Officer, Junaid Kabir Khan, said that following the success of this project, there are plans to bring more uncultivated lands under cultivation. He expressed hope that this will open new opportunities for fruit and cash crop production in the upazila.