MADHUPUR, TANGAIL, Feb 13: Farmers in Madhupur Upazila are beaming with joy as mustard cultivation exceeds target this season, promising a bumper harvest. Vast mustard fields across the upazila are now covered in bright yellow blooms, creating a striking landscape.
The Upazila Agriculture Office reported that the target for mustard cultivation this season was 2,500 hectares. Farmers have surpassed this goal, cultivating an additional 110 hectares, bringing the total area under mustard to 2,610 hectares. With favorable weather conditions, farmers are hopeful for abundant yields.
Among the varieties grown, BARI-14 is highly preferred due to its higher yield, while other varieties include BINA-17, BINA-18, and BINA-29.9. Farmers are particularly inclined to grow BARI-14 as it is cost-effective and more profitable compared to other crops.
Field visits across various unions and villages, including the town areas, reveal mustard fields swaying in the wind, with flowers in full bloom. In Golabari area, mustard farmer Hazrat Ali said, "I have cultivated mustard on two bighas of land this year. Each plant is blooming heavily. If the weather remains favorable and I can harvest and sell on time, I will earn extra income. After harvesting mustard, I will be able to cultivate Boro paddy on the same land."
Another farmer, Rafiqul Islam, added, "Last year, mustard prices were good, so I cultivated about three bighas this year. The yield looks promising, and I hope to sell at good prices. Demand for mustard in the market is also high. Seeing this good yield, we are delighted."
Upazila Assistant Agriculture Officer Anisur Rahman said, "Our team provides farmers with on-field guidance to improve yield and cultivation practices."
Upazila Agriculture Officer Rokib Al-Rana noted, "Mustard cultivation in Madhupur has exceeded expectations this year, reaching 2,610 hectares. Each bigha may yield 5 to 6 mon of mustard if conditions remain favorable. Our field officers are providing advice and supervision to ensure maximum productivity. Mustard is a versatile crop that can provide oil, greens, compost, and even fuelwood.
Its short 80-90 day growing cycle allows farmers to plant Boro paddy afterward. This year's expansion by 110 hectares over last year indicates increasing popularity and potential for a bumper harvest."
