Dhudhnai Farmer Harkanta Basumatary Brings New Hope to Assam’s Agricultural Economy Through Palm Oil Cultivation; Honoured with ‘Asom Gaurav 2025’

A progressive farmer from Dhudhnai, Harkanta Basumatary, has opened new avenues for Assam’s rural economy through palm oil cultivation. In recognition of his contribution to the agricultural sector, he has been honoured with the prestigious ‘Asom Gaurav 2025’ award.

Basumatary, who pioneered oil palm cultivation in Assam, began the initiative in 2014 on approximately 160 bighas of land. His pioneering efforts marked the beginning of a new chapter in oil palm farming in the state and paved the way for the expansion of this crop.

At present, oil palm cultivation has expanded across more than 200 hectares of land in Goalpara district alone. The cultivation has also spread to around 18 districts across Assam, emerging as a promising source of livelihood for farmers.

With the initiatives of Dhudhnai MLA Tankeswar Rabha, several young farmers in the district have also become self-reliant through oil palm cultivation. The initiative has created new opportunities for rural livelihoods while contributing to the growth of the agricultural economy.

Following the recognition, Harkanta Basumatary expressed his gratitude to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Dhudhnai MLA Tankeswar Rabha for the recognition and support.

Basumatary’s achievement has brought renewed hope to Assam’s agricultural sector, while his journey is inspiring young people to explore farming as a viable avenue for self-employment and economic independence.