News Flash
By Delowar Hossain Akaid
CUMILLA, June 4, 2026 (BSS) - Defying the long-held belief that Bangladesh's climate and soil are unsuitable for grape cultivation, a farmer in a border area of Cumilla has successfully grown grapes, opening up new possibilities for the country's agricultural sector.
Clusters of red and black grapes now hang from the vines in the orchard of farmer Aktaruzzaman Sekul in Sharifpur village under Cumilla Adarsha Sadar upazila, inspiring local farmers and attracting visitors from different areas.
Known for his interest in innovative farming, Sekul ventured into grape cultivation after receiving training on modern grape-growing techniques in India. Using the knowledge and experience he gained there, he established an experimental vineyard on 82 decimals of land in his village.
He planted three improved grape varieties, including Vainukur, a Russian variety, and a popular seedless variety from Trkiye.
Despite facing skepticism and criticism in the initial stages, Sekul remained confident. Through proper pruning, irrigation, disease management and regular care, he successfully nurtured the vines, which are now laden with grape clusters.
Rather than seeking maximum production in the first year, he focused on ensuring the long-term health and productivity of the plants. As a result, he pruned many buds and clusters, retaining around 200 grape clusters that have now matured.
Currently, about 100 kilograms of grapes are hanging on the vines. The red and black grapes are not only attractive in appearance but also sweet in taste.
"I believed success was possible if the right technology and management practices were followed. The response to the first harvest has been very encouraging, and I am optimistic about the future," Sekul said.
He said he plans to expand grape cultivation on a larger scale and wants other farmers in the region to explore grape farming alongside conventional crops.
"There is strong market demand for grapes. With proper planning, it can be a highly profitable crop," he added.
The vineyard has already become a major attraction for people of all ages.
After visiting the orchard, Managing Director of Lalmai Lake Land Mir Mofizul Islam expressed his admiration for the initiative.
"I never imagined grape cultivation could be so successful in our country. I own some land in Lalmai and am planning to cultivate grapes there," he said.
He noted that commercial grape cultivation could create a new source of income for farmers and help reduce dependence on imported grapes.
A visitor to the orchard, Munzerin Chowdhury said tasting freshly harvested grapes directly from the vine was a unique experience.
"Previously, I only bought grapes from the market. Eating freshly picked grapes directly from the vine is completely different. The taste is excellent," she said.
Another visitor, Masuda Islam, said the experience changed her perception about locally grown grapes.
"I always heard that grapes grown in Bangladesh are sour. But after coming here, that perception has changed. The grapes are sweet, juicy and aromatic," she expressed.
Inspired by Sekul's success, many local farmers have started gathering information about grape cultivation, while others are considering planting grape saplings on an experimental basis.
The Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) has also shown keen interest in the initiative.
A.K.M. Arifuzzaman Rahman, Deputy Assistant Agriculture Officer of Cumilla Adarsha Sadar upazila, said the department has been monitoring the vineyard regularly and providing technical support from the beginning.
"So far, the production outlook is highly encouraging," he said.
"Particularly in elevated lands and hilly areas, grape cultivation has significant potential. The agriculture department is ready to provide necessary advice and assistance to anyone interested in grape farming," he added.
