Quinoa, known as a superfood, is being grown in Bangladesh, and Mirsharai farmer Dilip Nath has achieved a breakthrough by growing it for the first time in Chattogram. He grew it on about 24 decimals of land in the Tinghoriatola area of Moghadia union with the help of the upazila agriculture office.

Though known in Bangladesh as a new crop, quinoa is in considerable demand in Europe and America. Known as a superfood, it contains high protein, vitamins, minerals, iron and antioxidants and is very beneficial for diabetes patients, so its popularity in global markets is growing. The crop can be harvested within just 75-80 days at low cost, taking less time than other crops.

Agriculturists said it costs Tk 500-600 to grow quinoa on one decimal of land, which yields 4-6 kg. Trial cultivation through farmers has produced good results, and Bangladesh has a favourable environment for quinoa. Imported quinoa costs Tk 1,600 a kg, and the number of buyers in the country is steadily rising.

According to the upazila agriculture office, the trial on this roughly 24-decimal plot in Mirsharai is the first in Chattogram. The office said the farmer is satisfied with the good crop.

Farmer Dilip Nath said: "With the help of upazila agriculture officer Protap Roy I have grown quinoa for the first time on 24 decimals. He gave me advice, and by following it I got a good crop. I sowed the seed on 17 December last year and will be able to harvest within a short time."

Upazila agriculture officer Protap Roy said: "As it is grown much like mustard, it takes little cost and time. Plants start sprouting within four or five days. After a month, urea is applied and the soil is raised into ridges to line up the plants. It can be harvested within 10-15 days. There is great potential for quinoa farming in future."

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