NAFED to Procure Mustard at MSP in Rabi 2025–26; Rising Demand and Government Support Encourage Farmers to Increase Acreage
Published on: October 07, 2025
By: BTNI
Location: Rajnandgaon, India
The popularity of mustard farming is rising rapidly among farmers in Rajnandgaon district, driven by strong demand both in domestic and international markets and the assurance of government procurement at the Minimum Support Price (MSP) under the Price Support Scheme (PSS). This year, NAFED, in coordination with the Chhattisgarh State Government, will procure mustard seeds directly from farmers at MSP, providing a significant boost to the oilseed sector.
According to agriculture officials, India’s mustard oil remains a household staple, making the crop both profitable and resilient. Currently, mustard is cultivated in about 1,100–1,200 hectares in the district, but the acreage is expected to increase notably this Rabi season. The crop’s adaptability to both irrigated and non-irrigated land and its low water requirement make it an attractive option for farmers seeking sustainable and profitable alternatives.
Deputy Director of Agriculture, Mr. Tikam Singh Thakur, highlighted that mustard requires only 300 mm of irrigation water—five times less than summer paddy—and has a low production cost of ₹10,000–₹11,000 per acre. Farmers can earn a net profit of ₹22,000–₹23,000 per acre, with market prices ranging between ₹6,000 and ₹6,200 per quintal. The department has prepared a special action plan to promote mustard cultivation across the district this year.
Optimal Conditions and Crop Management
Mustard is one of India’s most important oilseed crops, sown between mid-September and mid-October during the Rabi season. Ideal temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C. It can be grown in all soil types but performs best in well-drained sandy loam soil with good moisture retention.
Field preparation requires ploughing with a soil-turning plough, followed by two or three harrowings, and leveling with a plank to retain moisture and ensure efficient irrigation.
Seed Rate and Varieties
For irrigated fields, 5–6 kg of seed per hectare is recommended. Seed quantity may vary depending on water availability and crop duration.
Some improved mustard varieties include:
- RH-30 – Suitable for both irrigated and rain-fed conditions, often intercropped with wheat, gram, or barley.
- T-59 (Varuna) – Ideal for unirrigated areas; yields 15–18 quintals per hectare with 36% oil content.
- Pusa Bold and Ashirwad (RK) – Suitable for late sowing (October 25–November 15).
- NRCHB-101 – Performs best under irrigated conditions; yields up to 20–22 quintals per hectare.
Irrigation, Fertilization, and Weed Control
The first irrigation should be given 25–30 days after sowing, and the second during pod filling. Mustard should not be irrigated during flowering to avoid damage. The strip irrigation method (4–6 m wide beds) ensures even water distribution.
For fertilization, 6–12 tonnes of compost, 160–170 kg urea, 250 kg single super phosphate, 50 kg muriate of potash, and 200 kg gypsum per hectare are advised for irrigated fields. For rain-fed areas, reduced quantities should be used accordingly.
Weed control can be achieved through thinning after 15–20 days of sowing and by applying Pendimethalin 30 EC (3.3 liters per hectare) mixed in 600–800 liters of water within three days of sowing.
Pest and Disease Management
Mustard is susceptible to diseases such as Alternaria blight, powdery mildew, and white rust. Spraying Mancozeb 75% (800–1000 liters per hectare) provides effective control.
Harvesting and Storage
Harvesting should begin when 75% of the pods turn golden yellow. The crop can be harvested manually or mechanically, threshed, and sun-dried thoroughly before storage. Average yields range from 18–20 quintals per hectare in rain-fed areas and 20–25 quintals per hectare in irrigated fields.
With sustained government support, rising market prices, and improved technical guidance, Rajnandgaon district is poised to become a leading region in mustard cultivation — enhancing farmer income and contributing to India’s self-reliance in edible oil production.
