Netrokona: Mustard cultivation in the district has gained strong momentum this season, raising hopes for a higher yield as farmers make productive use of fallow land between Aman and Boro paddy cultivation. With the arrival of winter at the end of Bangla month Hemanta and the beginning of Paush, vast stretches of farmland across the district have turned golden with blooming mustard flowers.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, encouraged by favorable weather, modern farming techniques and government support, farmers are increasingly cultivating mustard as an additional crop instead of leaving land idle. The district Department of Agriculture Extension (DAE) office reports that mustard has been cultivated on 14,032 hectares of land this year, surpassing last year’s target of 13,050 hectares. Officials expect overall production to be higher than in previous years.
Farmers noted that the cultivation of short-duration Aman paddy has created a window of two to two-and-a-half months before Boro cultivation, which is now being effectively utilized for mustard farming. Abdul Mannaf Khan, a farmer from Paschim Uluati village in Sadar upazila, shared his strategic approach to cropping cycles, stating, “After harvesting early Aman, the land remains unused for a long time. So I sow mustard seeds in mid-Kartik. It takes only three months to harvest.” Inspired by last year’s success, he intends to expand cultivation this season.
Despite the costs associated with land preparation, seeds, fertilizers, and harvesting, rising market demand has made mustard cultivation profitable. Currently, mustard is being sold directly to local traders at prices ranging from Taka 2,500 to Taka 3,500 per maund. Many farmers also utilize the mustard for household oil production, ensuring year-round consumption.
Rafiq Mia, a farmer from Light village under Challisha union of Sadar upazila, emphasized the traditional significance of mustard cultivation, particularly on river char land. He remarked, “If farmers cultivate mustard collectively again, the prosperity of earlier days can return.”
Agricultural experts have observed a decline in crop diversity due to double-cropping of paddy in upland areas. However, with proper planning, training, and government support, farmers are now able to cultivate multiple crops on the same land each year. Mukshedul Haque, Additional Deputy Director (Plant Protection) of the DAE, expressed optimism about the progress, highlighting the government’s role in encouraging mustard cultivation during the period between Aman and Boro.
Under government incentive programs, seeds and fertilizers have been distributed to 11,000 farmers, with an additional 3,500 farmers receiving assistance through various agricultural projects. Modern mustard varieties such as Bari Sarisha-14 and 17 and Bina Sarisha-9 and 11 are gaining popularity through yard meetings and field demonstrations. “This silent revolution in mustard cultivation is now clearly visible, particularly in Sadar, Madan and Purbadhala upazilas,” Haque added.
With expanding acreage, strong market demand, and continued institutional support, mustard cultivation in Netrokona is expected to contribute significantly to farmers’ incomes and regional agricultural sustainability.