SEA, Solidaridad Set Up 2,000 Mustard Model Farms in Key States

The Solvent Extractors’ Association of India (SEA) and Solidaridad, in collaboration with ICAR - Directorate of Rapeseed-Mustard Research (ICAR-DRMR), have established 2,000 mustard model farms (MMF) across Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan this year.

Expanding Mustard Cultivation with High-Yield Varieties

This initiative introduces high-yielding mustard varieties (HYV) such as DRMR 1165-40 and RH 725, developed by ICAR-DRMR. It focuses on:

• Improving pest and disease management
• Promoting climate-resilient production methods
• Developing peer learning networks through farmer field schools (FFS)

These farms serve as knowledge hubs, encouraging broader adoption of advanced mustard farming techniques.

Structured Approach to Mustard Farming

The MMF project follows a systematic plan to enhance mustard productivity:

1. Selection of lead farmers and geo-tagging plots
2. Soil testing and issuing soil health cards for balanced nutrient management
3. Training programs for lead farmers on HYV seeds, seed treatment, and pest control
4. Distribution of quality inputs such as fertilizers and bio-fertilizers
5. Farmer Field Schools (FFS) for practical learning and knowledge-sharing
6. Monitoring through field visits and tracking sheets to ensure best practices
7. Farmer field days to showcase comparative demonstrations and encourage participation

Boosting Mustard Oil Production & Reducing Imports

According to SEA President Sanjeev K. Asthana, this project is crucial for reducing India’s dependence on edible oil imports and achieving self-sufficiency in mustard oil production. Currently, mustard accounts for 40% of India’s total edible oil production.

Sustainable Farming & Inclusion of Women Farmers

The MMF project also promotes:

• Higher oil content (38-42%) in mustard seeds
• Bio-fertilizers and reduced pesticide use for climate-smart agriculture
• Digital platforms (Krishi Choupal, advisories, and farmer helplines) to spread knowledge
• Women farmers' participation in mustard farming initiatives

A Growing Future for Mustard Farming

Since its launch in 2020-21, the MMF initiative has played a key role in training farmers on advanced cultivation techniques, significantly improving both productivity and resilience.