The heritage of Mohanpur's Geographical Indication (GI)-recognised betel leaf has received a permanent visual identity with the unveiling of a boundary pillar featuring the iconic betel leaf symbol at the entrance to Mohanpur Upazila in Rajshahi.
The plaque of the newly constructed gateway was unveiled on Monday morning by Rajshahi Deputy Commissioner Kazi Shahidul Islam at Basantakedar in Maugachhi Union, beside the Rajshahi–Naogaon Highway.
Speaking at the inauguration, the Deputy Commissioner said every upazila should have a distinctive gateway reflecting its unique identity. He noted that after overcoming longstanding administrative challenges, Mohanpur now has a boundary pillar representing its rich agricultural heritage.
"As Mohanpur's betel leaf has earned GI recognition, it has become a symbol of the upazila's heritage, economy and uniqueness. Incorporating the betel leaf into the boundary pillar officially highlights Mohanpur's own identity," he said.
He also instructed the Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) to install an information board titled "Mohanpur at a Glance" beside the gateway so that visitors can easily learn about the upazila's history, heritage, agriculture and development potential.
According to the local administration, the project was implemented by the Mohanpur Upazila Disaster Management Office under the Department of Disaster Management's Rural Infrastructure Maintenance (TR) Programme at a cost of Tk 350,000.
Among those present at the ceremony were Mohanpur UNO Fahima Binte Akhter, Assistant Commissioner (Land) Zobaida Sultana, Upazila Project Implementation Officer Engineer Tarikul Islam, Acting Chairman of Maugachhi Union Parishad Major Ali Biswas, freedom fighters, local public representatives and distinguished residents.
Mohanpur's betel leaf has long been one of the area's principal agricultural products, supplying markets across Bangladesh and supporting the livelihoods of thousands of farmers. Following its GI recognition, the symbolic gateway has been designed to permanently showcase this agricultural legacy.
Engineer Tarikul Islam said the betel leaf was chosen because it is the upazila's signature crop and a source of national recognition.
"This is not merely an infrastructure project; it is a symbol of Mohanpur's agricultural heritage. We hope to continue implementing similar people-oriented development initiatives in the future," he said.
Acting Union Parishad Chairman Major Ali Biswas said local residents had long demanded a boundary pillar reflecting Mohanpur's identity.
"After years of efforts, that aspiration has finally been fulfilled. The inclusion of the betel leaf symbol has further strengthened Mohanpur's identity," he said.
Freedom fighter Golam Mortaza described the project as a matter of local pride, saying it would help future generations recognise and preserve the area's cultural and agricultural heritage.
Residents believe the landmark gateway will strengthen Mohanpur's branding, preserve its agricultural identity, enhance its visibility nationwide and contribute to promoting its tourism and economic potential.
