The mustard farmers of Jashore district are anticipating a record production and significant profits this year, thanks to favorable weather conditions and enhanced government support.
The Jashore Department of Agriculture Extension (DAE) revealed that the area under mustard cultivation surpassed the initial target of 29,900 hectares, reaching 30,265 hectares. This increase is a part of the government’s initiative to reduce edible oil imports, as highlighted by DAE sources.
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A visit to Churamonkathi village in Sadar upazila showcased vast fields adorned with vibrant mustard flowers. The farmers have adopted Bari-9 and Bari-14 mustard varieties, with the government providing each farmer with one kg of seeds and 20 kg of fertilizers per bigha of land to encourage cultivation.
Jabed Ali, a farmer from Kulia village in Jhikargacha upazila, shared his optimism: “Compared to other crops like paddy, mustard cultivation is less expensive and more profitable. That’s why many of us have chosen to cultivate mustard.”
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The farmers are optimistic about the harvest, which is expected to begin within the next 20-25 days. “If the weather remains favorable, we anticipate a bumper yield,” Ali added.
Zahidur Rahman, another farmer from Keshabpur upazila, echoed this sentiment: “Last year, I harvested five maunds of mustard. With the current conditions, I expect an even greater yield this year.”
Dr. Sushanta Kumar Tarafdar, Deputy Director of DAE, underscored the government’s commitment to reducing edible oil imports. “By increasing the cultivation of Robi season crops like mustard, we aim to achieve this goal. This year, Jashore has seen a record yield,” he stated.
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The government provided seeds and fertilizers to 37,800 farmers across the district, including those in Abhaynagar upazila, where mustard cultivation covered 2,110 hectares.
The concerted efforts of the farmers, favorable weather, and government support have combined to set the stage for a highly successful mustard harvest in Jashore, marking a significant stride in Bangladesh’s agricultural sector.