photo: BSS

By S M Zahid Hossain

KHULNA, April 11, 2025 (BSS) - The Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) of Khulna Zone has set a target to plant 5,636,020 drumstick (Moringa) saplings on 937 hectares of fallow land during the 2024-25 fiscal year, marking a 71 percent increase from the previous year.

The initiative aims to make productive use of unused land, enhance family nutrition, combat soil erosion, and support environmental protection efforts, Md Rafiqul Islam, additional director of DAE Khulna Zone told BSS.

According to officials, around 1,127,204 farmers from Khulna, Bagerhat, Satkhira and Narail districts will plant drumstick saplings from June to September, each planting five drumstick saplings on their fallow lands.

As part of the initiative, 27,000 hybrid varieties of stem-cuttings (ODC-3) - a highly productive type of drumstick - are already being planted along roadside areas and vacant lands, said Rafiqul Islam.

The planting program officially kicked off last week in Shoronkhola and Morelganj upazilas of Bagerhat and will continue till May.

Additionally, the plantation of 56,920 saplings of an advanced local variety is scheduled to begin in June and will run until September, aligning with the seasonal cultivation window.

"Farmers are not only planting the trees but will also be responsible for their care," Rafiqul Islam said.

During a site visit on Thursday, the reporter observed that stem-cutting ODC-3 varieties are being planted along three kilometers of the Khulna-Mongla railway line, covering the villages of Chara, Sachibunia, and Jhorobhanga.

Mahadeb Kumar Saha, District Training Officer at the DAE, said that areas unsuitable for construction have been specifically chosen for this agro-initiative. The project formally began with an inauguration ceremony on Wednesday morning.

Local residents, including Monirul Islam, Ripon Hossain, Moni Mohon Mondal, Sadhan Roy, and Kakoli from Rupsha upazila, expressed enthusiasm, citing the nutritional and medicinal benefits of every part of the drumstick tree - especially its leaves, flowers, and pods.

Talhing to BSS, Professor Dr. Monirul Islam of Khulna University's Agro Technology Discipline described Moringa oleifera as the world's second most potent superfood after Spirulina.

"It is rich in micro-nutrients and vital for human health," he said.

Farhana Akter, a nutritionist at the Khulna Diabetic Association, said "Drumstick leaves and seeds have been used medicinally for over four decades and are a valuable export product. It is effective in managing joint pain, diabetes and boosting immune function."

Dr. Zahidul Islam, also from the Diabetic Association, added that drumstick leaf powder offers natural pain relief and can support muscle recovery, regulate blood pressure and cholesterol and provide essential vitamins and minerals.

"Unlike chemical painkillers, drumstick powder provides relief without harmful side effects," he said.

"Drumstick is not only medicinal but also a delicious and versatile vegetable. Its leaves are commonly used in dishes such as lentil soups, making it both a healthful and flavorful addition to local diets," Dr Zahid added.