Kupwara farmers reap benefits of mustard cultivation push

Kupwara district is witnessing a significant surge in mustard oilseed cultivation this year, with more than 3,500 farming families participating in what officials and farmers describe as a “yellow revolution,” raising hopes of a bumper harvest.

Farmers across several areas, particularly in Langate, have brought large tracts of land under oilseed cultivation—something locals say is unprecedented.

According to villagers, over 150 hectares of land in Langate alone have been cultivated with mustard this season.

“The concept of double cropping had nearly faded among farmers, but due to the consistent efforts of the Agriculture Department, it is now reviving,” said Ghulam Mohammad, a farmer from Langate.

Farmers credit the Agriculture Department for promoting mustard cultivation by providing free seeds and technical guidance. “Officials encouraged us to take up oilseed cultivation and supported us throughout. Those who didn’t opt for it are now regretting after seeing the bumper crop,” Mohammad added.

Many farmers are optimistic about improved household self-sufficiency and additional income. Abdul Khaliq, another farmer, said he cultivated mustard on 10 kanals of land and expects to meet his household’s cooking oil requirements. “Given the yield, I may even have surplus oil to sell, which will boost my income,” he said.

Traditionally, much of the agricultural land in Kashmir remains fallow after the paddy harvest. However, farmers are now being encouraged to adopt a second crop. “After paddy, farmers usually leave their land unused. They should instead go for oilseeds or wheat to increase their income manifold,” Khaliq added.

A senior Agriculture Department official said misconceptions about soil fertility loss due to double cropping have discouraged farmers in the past. “There is a belief that double cropping harms soil fertility, which is not true. Mustard is a resilient crop and can withstand temperatures as low as minus 20 degrees Celsius,” the officer said.

He added that mustard is typically sown between October and November and harvested by the end of May.

Highlighting the scale of expansion, the official said that around 6,700 hectares of land have been brought under oilseed cultivation in Kupwara this year, a significant increase from 4,300 hectares last year. “The department is working closely with farmers to maximise land use during the Rabi season and improve farm incomes,” he said.

He also urged farmers to take full advantage of government schemes and departmental support to enhance productivity and earnings.

Meanwhile, farmers from Langate and adjoining areas have appealed to the authorities to provide oilseed grinding facilities locally. “Due to the absence of grinding machines in our area, we are forced to travel long distances. If such units are provided at the block level, it will not only ease our burden but also create employment opportunities for local youth,” said a farmer, echoing a common demand among growers.