Photo : Messenger
The farmers of Jashore are witnessing a financial upswing as mustard cultivation proves to be a lucrative venture with a bountiful yield. According to the latest data from the District Agriculture Extension Directorate, mustard cultivation has expanded to cover 30,265 hectares of land in Jashore, surpassing the target by an additional 365 hectares.
In comparison to the previous season's cultivation on 25,225 hectares, this year's surge in mustard cultivation is attributed to the profitability and incentives associated with this crop. Farmers are expressing optimism as they report a bumper crop of mustard, foreseeing substantial financial gains.
The increasing popularity of mustard cultivation can be attributed to its low maintenance requirements, with farmers highlighting its profitability without the need for extensive irrigation and fertilizers. Additionally, the availability of free seeds and facilities further fuels the growing interest in mustard farming.
Saiful Islam, a farmer from Sinhajhuli village in Chowagacha upazila, shared his positive experience, stating that he has been cultivating mustard for the past two years on a two bigha leased land. Last year, he achieved a good yield, sold surplus mustard, and decided to plant mustard on the same land this year, emphasizing the financial benefits without the need for extensive inputs.
Zahir Uddin, another farmer from Ramakrishnapur village, highlighted the economic advantage of mustard cultivation. He has been cultivating mustard for several years, noting an improvement in yield. In response to the increased soybean oil prices, he has begun producing his own oil from the harvested mustard, resulting in significant savings.
Rafiqul Islam from Chandutia village in Sadar Upazila echoed the positive sentiments, expressing satisfaction with the good yield from his 2 bigha mustard cultivation.
Deputy Director of District Agriculture Extension Directorate in Jashore, Sushant Kumar Tarafdar, confirmed that farmers have been incentivized for mustard cultivation. They have received free mustard seeds and three types of chemical fertilizers, contributing to a record-breaking expansion of mustard cultivation in the district. The initiative not only boosts agricultural productivity but also enhances the financial well-being of the local farming community.
Messenger/Rocky