29 March 2024, New Delhi: The Central Seed Committee, under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare (MoA&FW), Government of India, has recently announced the notification of four new Indian Mustard varieties. These varieties have been approved for cultivation and are poised to contribute to the growth and productivity of the mustard sector in the country.
The newly approved Indian Mustard varieties are as follows:
1. BPM 11 (Bharatpur Mustard 11) (DRMR 2018-19): Developed by the Directorate of Rapeseed-Mustard Research (DRMR), Bharatpur Mustard 11 offers promising traits suitable for cultivation in specific agro-climatic conditions. This variety is expected to provide farmers with improved yields and enhanced resistance to prevalent diseases and pests.
2. Pusa Double Zero Mustard 35 (PDZ 14): Developed by the esteemed Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), Pusa Double Zero Mustard 35 showcases exceptional characteristics that make it a valuable addition to the mustard varieties available to farmers. With its high productivity potential and adaptability, PDZ 14 is expected to contribute significantly to the mustard cultivation landscape.
3. Pusa Double Zero Mustard 36 (PDZ 15): Another creation of the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa Double Zero Mustard 36 is anticipated to be a game-changer in the mustard sector. This variety possesses desirable agronomic traits, including high oil content and resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses, making it a preferred choice for farmers seeking improved yields and resilience.
4. Gujarat Mustard 7 (Banas Anmol) (SKM 1746): Developed by the State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Gujarat, Banas Anmol is set to make a mark in the mustard industry. This variety exhibits excellent adaptability to diverse climatic conditions and offers enhanced oil content, disease resistance, and improved crop duration, making it a promising choice for farmers in Gujarat and beyond.
The introduction of these new mustard varieties is expected to provide farmers with a wider range of options to suit their specific farming requirements and geographical conditions. The varieties have undergone rigorous testing and evaluation to ensure their conformity to quality standards, productivity potential, and suitability for different regions across the country.
The Central Seed Committee’s approval of these Indian Mustard varieties is a significant step towards promoting agricultural innovation, enhancing crop productivity, and ensuring food security. By expanding the genetic diversity and availability of improved mustard varieties, the government aims to support farmers in achieving higher yields, better crop quality, and increased profitability.
Farmers and stakeholders in the agricultural sector are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these newly approved mustard varieties and explore their potential for cultivation. The government, along with research institutions, will continue to facilitate knowledge dissemination and provide necessary support to ensure successful adoption and utilization of these varieties.
