Farmers in Koyra upazila of Khulna are increasingly embracing mustard cultivation, driven by its promising financial benefits.

The area dedicated to mustard fields has been steadily expanding each year, with farmers reaping dual rewards from the crop-the mustard yield itself and the honey produced from the flowers, officials said.

This year, mustard fields spanning across Amadi, Bagali, Meheshripur, Moharajpur, Koyra Sadar, Uttar and Dakshin Bedakashi villages have turned into vibrant yellow landscapes, attracting not only farmers but also nature enthusiasts seeking beauty in the countryside.

According to the Upazila Agriculture Office, mustard cultivation has been carried out on 210 hectares of land this season, with 200 farmers receiving government incentives. Each farmer was provided with 10 kilograms of DAP, 10 kilograms of MOP, and one kilogram of mustard seeds to aid their efforts.

Farmers' Optimism

Nazrul Islam, a farmer from Kalna village, expanded his mustard cultivation by an additional two bighas this year, bringing the total to seven bighas. "Last year's bumper yield inspired me to increase the cultivated area," he shared, adding that he is hopeful for another successful harvest.

Similarly, young farmer Ashrafuzzam Liton from Balidanga village planted mustard for the first time this season, following guidance from the upazila agriculture office. "If no natural disaster strikes, we can expect a bumper yield," he expressed confidently.

Meanwhile, Mohar Ali Ghain from Bedkashi village cultivated mustard on two bighas of land at minimal cost, expecting a substantial crop this year.

Overcoming Challenges

Md Abdullah Al Mamun, the Upazila Agriculture Officer, highlighted the significant potential for mustard and sunflower cultivation in Koyra.

Despite excessive rainfall delaying the Aman paddy harvest and slightly reducing the area for mustard cultivation, farmers adapted quickly. By following the advice of the Agriculture Extension Department, they managed to plant mustard on fallow land, mitigating potential losses.

Role of Mustard in Bangladesh

Mustard is a vital oilseed crop in Bangladesh, cultivated extensively across the country.

In the 2021-2022 fiscal year, Bangladesh produced 409,659 metric tonnes of mustard. The Ministry of Agriculture has set an ambitious target to expand mustard cultivation to 2.3 million hectares by 2024-2025.

The crop holds both economic and nutritional significance. Mustard is a high-energy food, rich in fat-soluble vitamins. As temperatures in Bangladesh rise from February, the crop must be harvested by mid-February to ensure optimal yield.

Innovative Mustard Varieties

One promising variety is Binasarisha-8, known for its shorter height, black seed coat, and resistance to Alternaria blight disease. This variety can yield up to 2.4 tonnes of seeds per hectare, offering farmers a reliable and productive option.

A Bright Future

The growing enthusiasm for mustard farming in Koyra, combined with supportive measures from the government and agriculture offices, paints an optimistic picture for the future of this vital crop.

With a continued focus on innovation, sustainable farming practices, and market access, mustard cultivation is set to thrive as a key contributor to Bangladesh's agricultural landscape.