A diplomatic delegation visited tulip fields in Panchagarh district to encourage the farmers to create additional livelihood opportunities for the rural community in Bangladesh.

The delegation on financing a rural development project to boost microenterprises included Winnie Estrup Petersen, Ambassador of Denmark in Bangladesh, and Arnoud Hameleers, Country Director, Bangladesh, at the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).

Typically grown in cooler climates, there is a high demand for tulips in Dhaka, said the IFAD on Tuesday.

In 2021, eight farmers were trained to cultivate and market tulips as part of a value chain development initiative implemented by the Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF) and its partner Eco-Social Development Organisation.

After the successful pilot, the initiative has expanded to include 20 farmers from Darjipara village of Tetulia Upazila, who are now producing around 100,000 tulips this year.

Winnie Estrup Petersen, Ambassador of Denmark in Bangladesh, said, “I am very pleased to be here in this colourful tulip garden and proud that the Danish Government, together with IFAD and the Government of Bangladesh, has invested in building capacities of these young women farmers. I hope to see this field blooming and creating additional livelihood opportunities for the rural community in the future.”

Most of the bouquets produced by the farmers are transported to the capital, and some are also sold locally. Because the flowers are a novelty, the fields also attract visitors and tourists, generating business for the local community.

 “As a Dutch person, tulips are special to me. It is exciting to see them being cultivated in the remotest parts of Bangladesh using interesting technology, trying to simulate the Dutch Climate. These women have proven once again that a new product can be produced and new value chains can be created if they receive adequate support through training, access to financial services, and market linkages,” said Arnoud Hameleers.

Anowara, one of the farmers, said, "I have been involved with livestock rearing and agricultural works. Last year I started cultivating tulips, earning Tk 65,000 (USD 620) in only 45 days. With that money, I have brought more livestock. This year, I hope to earn more, also because there is great interest from local tourists visiting the beautiful gardens. This gives us additional business.”