Md. Sohel Rana, a 24-year-old trailblazer and a participant of the CLIMB project, has crafted an ingenious solution to transform traditional farming. His unique approach captures attention and promises a revolution in organic cultivation.

In the heart of Dalepara, Ukhiya, Cox’s Bazar, Sohel was engaged in traditional farming as his primary occupation, facing the challenges of an extended family after his father’s abandonment three years ago. But his story took an extraordinary turn when Sohel channeled his passion for innovative organic farming after participating in the CLIMB project’s courtyard sessions, where he learned about climate-smart agricultural techniques and found a pathway to unleash his interests.

Armed with the support of the CLIMB project, Sohel embarked on a groundbreaking venture – ginger cultivation in sack bags. The results have been outstanding, starting with 100 jute bags and utilizing organic fertilizers. Anticipating a bountiful harvest by the end of February 2024, Sohel showcased his innovative method to Upazila Agriculture officials. They were not only just impressed but also amazed at the efficiency, requiring less water and land.

Encouraged by his green skills, Sohel received additional support from the officials. He was given 20kg of organic fertilizers, two large packets of seeds with ten varieties each, and saplings of Guava, Amalaki (Gooseberry), Malta (Sweet Orange), Mango, and 60 kg of ginger seeds. That event marked the beginning of a transformative journey.

Taking it a step further, Sohel submitted a Papaya cultivation project concept, integrating drip irrigation as part of the CLIMB Green Hackathon. His idea and business model shone during a solution development workshop, earning him valuable resources – an electric motor for the drip irrigation tank, micro drippers, other accessories, and 150 Papaya saplings. With ongoing cultivation, Sohel started different varieties of cultivation simultaneously in the same field, aiming to double his income.

Now, as Sohel explores market opportunities for his products to maximize profit, he emphasizes the importance of broad thinking among the youth. Sohel encourages understanding the challenges, ground nature, technical aspects, and market demands, stressing that success in agriculture requires continuous hard work, not a fleeting daydream. His inspiring quote echoes throughout his journey: “The youth should have a broad-thinking mind and stand on their own without expectations from others. A vast scope of entrepreneurship in agriculture exists across this region. But one must understand the challenges, the ground nature, technical aspects, market demand, etc. Agripreneurship should not be a single daydream but continuous hard work.”

His story becomes a testament to individual success and a beacon for the vast scope of entrepreneurship in agriculture across the region. His special thanks go to the Upazila Agriculture Office and the CARE Bangladesh CLIMB project team for providing him with organic farming knowledge and innovations that have fueled his remarkable journey.