The National Fruit Fair held on 18 June in Naogaon reflected a changing story of agriculture in Bangladesh—one that goes beyond production and embraces innovation, entrepreneurship, and market potential.
At the fair, organized with participation from the Department of Agricultural Extension, development organizations, fruit growers, and food processing entrepreneurs, agriculture was presented as a dynamic and evolving sector. Among the highlights was the stall of the Ghashful SMART Project, implemented with support from Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF).
The Ghashful stall drew significant attention, showcasing 14 local and international mango varieties, including Amrapali, Bari-4, Gourmati, Ashwina, Bari-11, Banana Mango, Katimon, Chiang Mai, Fazli, and others. Each variety represented a unique blend of research, farmer innovation, and global agricultural exchange.
Naogaon has long been known for mango cultivation, but in recent years, the district’s agricultural landscape has evolved. The introduction of improved and diverse mango varieties has extended the production season from a few weeks to several months, enhancing farmers’ income opportunities.
Another key feature of the fair was the display of processed fruit products such as pickles, jams, jellies, and dried mango. The message was clear—fruits are not only agricultural outputs but also value-added commodities with strong market potential.
This shift addresses a longstanding challenge: despite high production, a significant portion of fruits often goes to waste due to limited storage and processing facilities. Experts have long emphasized that developing value addition industries is essential for increasing farmers’ income and reducing losses.
Officials from the Ghashful SMART-Fruits Project highlighted their focus on safe fruit production, environmentally friendly farming practices, and strengthening market linkages. Through ongoing work with farmers across Naogaon, the project aims to build a sustainable, fruit-based local economy.
As the crowd grew in the evening, visitors explored, tasted, and engaged with the exhibits. It became clear that the event was more than just a fruit fair—it was a glimpse into the future of agriculture in Naogaon, where farming is not only about growing crops but also about innovation, culture, and economic transformation.