GOPALGANJ, Feb 8, 2026 (BSS) - SM Jasim Rahman, 40, of the district has achieved remarkable success through the commercial cultivation of Balsundari and Thai varieties of plum, setting an inspiring example for unemployed and educated youth in the region.

A resident of Pukhuria village under Paikkandi union of Sadar upazila, Jasim Rahman holds an LLB degree. Instead of pursuing a conventional job, he chose agriculture alongside business. His decision proved timely when business activities collapsed during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020.

Facing uncertainty, Jasim leased an additional six bighas of land alongside his own, establishing a modern plum garden on a total of 10 bighas. He planted around 1,200 saplings of the commercially popular 'Balsundari' and 'Thai plum' varieties. With proper care and the use of modern agricultural techniques, the garden began yielding within a short period.

At present, clusters of red and green plum fruits hang throughout the orchard, drawing attention from traders and visitors alike. Jasim said that, in addition to seasonal varieties, he is cultivating some perennial plum species, allowing for production almost year-round. He has set a target of producing at least 10 tonnes of plum annually.

One of the notable aspects of his farming practice is the production of large and tasty plum without using harmful chemical fertilizers or pesticides. Due to growing demand for poison-free fruits, wholesalers are purchasing plum directly from the garden at Taka 120 per kilogram.

According to Jasim, plum worth around Taka 6 lakh has already been sold this season, and he expects total earnings to exceed Taka 10 lakh by the end of the season. His orchard has also created employment for at least 10 local workers on a regular basis.

In his personal life, Jasim is father of two children-his daughter studies in class five, while his son is in class four.

"When all avenues were closed during the Corona period, I took a risk by leasing land for the sake of my children's future," Jasim said, adding: "Today, the welfare of my family and my children's education expenses are being met from this garden. This is my greatest achievement."

Inspired by his success, several local farmers, including Alam Khan and Gaus Sheikh, have shown interest in commercial plum cultivation.

Deputy Director of the District Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) Dr Mamunur Rahman praised Jasim's initiative, saying, "Jasim Rahman is a shining example for highly educated youth. He has demonstrated that success in agriculture is possible through proper application of talent and modern methods. By producing poison-free plum, he has also shown responsibility towards public health. The Agriculture Department is providing him with all necessary support."