Mustard crop production increases in Kailali sending happiness to farmers

Mustard crop production has increased by almost double this year as compared to previous year, according to the Agriculture Knowledge Centre, Kailali. 

Per hectare, up to 12 quintals of mustard has been produced this year against six quintals last year. "Last year, production of also other agricultural crops decreased due to high rainfall in winter. However, the weather this year is favourable for mustard crop, resulting in an increment in its production," said Khagendra Prasad Sharma, chief of the Centre.  

Not only mustard, it seems that other agricultural crops are likely to increase in production this year, he said. Production growth in mustard crop has sent happiness to farmers in Kailali district. 

This year, Sandesh Chaudhary of Janaki Rural Municipality sold 12 quintals of mustard for Rs 102,000 (Rs 10,000 per quintal). "I grew mustard crop in four bighas of land. The production was good. I sold off all my harvest except a few amount stored for household purpose. I am satisfied with the production this year," he said elated. 

Oil mill owners have stored required mustard crops for producing oil this year. "Last year, we could not get enough mustard crops for oil production due to lack of the crops. As a result, there was a scarcity of mustard oil in the market. However, I this year have got a godown full of mustard crops," said an oil mill owner Rabindra Dhami. 

Mustard crop has been grown in 20,000 hectares of land in the district. This year, approximately 20,000 tonnes of mustard were produced in the district, said Sharma. 
He suggested that farmers switch to new technology and use hybrid seeds and fertilisers to increase production.