Jackfruit, the national fruit, is closely bound up with Gazipur's history, heritage and hospitality. In this red-soil district it is hard to find a home without at least one jackfruit tree. Woven into rural culture, the jackfruit of the Bhawal forest area is not just a fruit but a symbol of the emotion and pride of the people of this region.

The year 2024 was historic for Gazipur's jackfruit: it was recognised as a geographical indication (GI) product. This international recognition has opened up a huge opportunity to export Gazipur jackfruit to countries around the world. With an unmatched taste and aroma, it is becoming more popular by the day with people across the country.

In the peak season of Jyoishtho and Asharh, every primary and wholesale market in Gazipur's Kaliakair, Sreepur, Kapasia, Kaliganj and Joydebpur areas bustles with the jackfruit trade. When the markets open at dawn each day, the air fills with the calls of wholesalers from different parts of the country. Trade worth crores of taka takes place around jackfruit every day in Gazipur alone.

Gazipur's jackfruit is not sold only as fresh fruit; new commercial ventures are under way. Various efforts are now being made to process jackfruit into chips, pickles and other foods and export them abroad, which could add a new dimension to the country's economy.

Unique in taste, aroma and heritage, Gazipur's jackfruit makes our mouths water and enriches the national economy. This blessing of the red soil is truly a wonder.

The writer, Sabbir Hossain, is a student at Ta'mirul Millat Kamil Madrasa, Tongi.

Source: Jagonews24. First published in Bengali on The Agro News.