DAE expects to produce 52,683 tonnes of mustard in Rangpur region

RANGPUR, Dec 21: Sweet aroma of mustard flowers fills the air as the cropland in different areas under Rangpur agriculture region has taken an impressive eye catching look.

The Department of Agriculture Extension (DAE) sources said the department has set a target to produce around 52,683 tonnes of mustard from some 40,525 hectares of land in five districts under the region during the current Rabi season. The charming yellow mustard flowers on a vast tract of lands are enchanting the beholders, making the cultivators optimistic of an excellent yield of the cash crop.

During a recent visit to several areas in the region this correspondent found the farmers busy nurturing the mustard field. The crops are getting matured and the lands filled with flowers presenting a captivating scenic beauty.

Akmal Mia (45), a farmer of Baniapara village at Taraganj Upazila in Rangpur said he cultivated mustard on one bigha of land this year spending Tk 2,700 only and is hopeful of achieving a good yield of the crop, if the weather remains conducive. "Farming of mustard needs only two time irrigation while around Tk 2,500 to Tk 3,000 is required for cultivating the crop on one bigha of land, he also said.

Shariful (45), a mustard grower of Basuniapara village at Charaikhola union under Nilphamari Sadar Upazila told The Financial Express that the cultivation of mustard is easier and less costly compared to other crops. He cultivated the crop on 40 decimal of his land this season and is expecting a satisfactory output of the crop.

DAE official sources said adequate initiatives have been taken to ensure the supply of quality seeds, fertilisers and other agri-inputs to the farmers in order to enhance its production.

Massive mustard cultivation might decline the dependency on imported edible oil such as soybeans. Good price as well as growing demand has encouraged the growers to cultivate it plentifully across the region, sources added.

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