Almonds are the seeds of the fruit of a large tree. Whose scientific name is Terminalia Catappa. Inside the juicy fruit of the tree there remains a few seeds 3-4 cm long. These seeds are known as Almonds. After taking the seeds out of the ripe fruit, it can be eaten directly or after frying.
Almonds are also known as Indian Nut all over the world. However, no one has been able to find out where it originally came from. It is thought to grow in tropical regions from Africa to Australia, including South and Southeast Asia. The tree has also spread to the America.
The good qualities of Almond cannot be overstated. Rich in nutrients, these nuts contain Vitamin E, B. D, Calcium, Phosphorus, Zinc, Copper, Selenium, Iron, Magnesium and beneficial fats. These nuts relieve constipation, reduce respiratory problems, reduce the risk of heart disease, eliminate anemia as well as these are beneficial for hair and skin.
Almonds are called by different names in different places. Such as Bengal Walnut, Singapore Walnut, Ebelbo, Malabar Walnut, Equatorial Walnut, Sea Walnut, Umbrella Tree Nut, Abrofo Nut, Janmandi etc. This nut is known as Almond in Bangladesh. In Kishoreganj Almond trees can be seen in many places including Horticulture Center, Prajapatkhila, Katabaria, Latiabad, Jashudal. Some people of the district are trying to become self-sufficient by selling Almonds.
A young man is often seen sitting with Almonds on Station Road in Kishoreganj district town. Many people flocked to buy Almond from him. In an attempt to become self-sufficient, this young man has started selling Almonds. There is no shortage of customers at his makeshift stall.
The man is Md. Nuruddin Sujan of Prajapatkhila village of Latibabad union under Sadar upazila. Talking to him, it was known that he has been selling Almonds at that place for the last 2 to 3 years and the sale is good. He sells the Almonds at Tk 800 per kg and a single fruit at Tk 30.
Children, teenagers, women, elders all crowd around him. According to Sujan, he sells Almonds worth Tk 3,000 to 4,000 on average every day. He added that he buy the nuts from Chittagong.
According to the Department of Agricultural Extension, there is an opportunity to become self-sufficient by cultivating Almonds. Farmers can expect good yield if they take proper care of the tree.
