Jahangir Alam Manik, Sapahar (Naogaon) 

Although the summer mango season has come to an end, tree-ripened mangoes are still available in Sapahar and Porsha upazilas of Naogaon, thanks to the year-round 'Katimon' variety. 

The off-season availability of this sweet mango has kept local markets buzzing, bringing smile and higher profits to farmers. The trend is also creating year-round employment opportunities, positively impacting the rural economy.

Local farmers shared that proper application of fertilizers, pesticides, and timely care allow Katimon trees to yield fruit off-season. Since mango prices remain significantly higher now compared to the peak summer season, growers are earning higher profit margins. Alongside local markets, these mangoes are being shipped to various parts of the country, including the capital, Dhaka.

According to data from the Naogaon Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), Katimon mangoes were cultivated on 255 hectares of land in the district this season, up from 190 hectares last year. Sapahar upazila alone accounts for 150 hectares of this cultivation. With an estimated yield of 12 to 15 metric tons per hectare, total production in the district is projected to reach between 3,060 and 3,825 metric tons.

In local retail markets, Katimon mangoes are selling for 150 to 200 BDT per kilogram, while wholesale prices range from 4,000 to 8,000 BDT per maund (approx. 37 kg). The agriculture department estimates potential total sales of Katimon mangoes to reach around 59.67 crore BDT this season.

Rezaul Karim, Additional Deputy Director (Horticulture) of the Naogaon DAE, stated that the introduction of the modern Katimon variety alongside farmers' attentive care is changing the belief that mangoes are strictly a summer fruit.