This research was undertaken in partial fulfillment of the
requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Science, 1988, Department of Geography,
University of Dhaka). Abstract:Betel leaf is a masticatory having important socio-cultural and ceremonial uses in South and Southeast Asia, significant medicinal properties and nutritional values. The vine is native to Southeast Asia including Bangladesh which is thought to be one of the cradles of earliest agriculture. Several 'lines' or 'ecotypes' of betel vines have been observed in Bangladesh but proper botanical research to confirm whether these are varieties is yet to be done. The cultivation of betel vine is influenced by some physical and socio-economic factors. Unlike many other crops, its cultivation requires intensive constant care from the farmers and is associated with a number of superstitions. The vine is highly susceptible to some diseases, pests, and some natural calamities. Despite these, the crop has shown a positive trend in terms of acreage, production, value added to national income, and export earning. As a crop with a high benefit-cost ratio, it deserves special attention. But unfortunately, with a few exceptions, it has been neglected by geographers, economists, botanists, soil and agricultural scientists. This study attempts to provide a systematic understanding of betel leaf cultivation in Bangladesh from an economic geographical point of view. (c) Copyright 1996-2006 M. Sayeeduzzaman |