Stories
Spices have been essential to culinary traditions for centuries. The people of the Indian subcontinent have been familiar with cinnamon, black pepper, and pepper since ancient times. Though 57-year-old Preetilata Tripura lacked detailed knowledge of their historical significance, she recognized the potential of black pepper cultivation and took on the challenge of growing this unconventional crop.
A century ago in the same district, Pritilata Waddedar, the first female martyr in the fight against the British colonialism, was honored as a ‘Veer Kanya’ (Brave Woman). Today, another Preetilata from Koila village in Mirsarai upazila of Chattogram, Bangladesh, has gained recognition as a model black pepper farmer, turning her determination into inspiration for others.
Preetilata shared, “They told me black pepper has good yields and higher profits. In 2018, I planted saplings on 125 poles, with four saplings per pole. The production began in 2021, and I sold 25 kgs of black pepper that year. Last year, I sold 40 kgs.” Since then, she never looked back. She has expanded black pepper cultivation to new areas, including her lemon and jackfruit orchards in the Golachipa village.
Using techniques learned from PKSF’s RMTP project, she now also grows and sells black pepper saplings. Among those who started black pepper cultivation with her, only Preetilata has succeeded in expanding her out-of-the-ordinary venture. To promote eco-friendly farming, she uses organic fertilizers and pesticides for her crops. Over the past few years, she has earned approximately BDT 2.4 lakh from black pepper, saplings, and inter-crops like ginger and turmeric.
Her success has also positively impacted her family. Her eldest daughter, Mitali, completed her bachelor’s degree before being married off. Preetilata’s second daughter, Shiuli, is pursuing her bachelor’s with honors at Barishal Nursing College. Her son, Amit, has passed SSC and now serves in the police.
In recognition of her achievements, Preetilata was awarded the ‘City Group-Prothom Alo Agriculture Award 2024’ as the best female farmer. Her resilience and determination have made her a role model for others in her community.
