Kupwara district is witnessing a notable rise in mustard oilseed cultivation this year, with over 3,500 farming families actively participating in what officials and locals are calling a \u201cyellow revolution,\u201d raising expectations of a strong and rewarding harvest.<\/p>\n
Farmers across several areas, especially Langate, have brought large stretches of land under mustard cultivation\u2014something residents say is unprecedented in recent years.<\/p>\n
According to villagers, more than 150 hectares of land in Langate alone have been used for mustard farming this season.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe concept of double cropping had almost disappeared among farmers, but due to the consistent efforts of the Agriculture Department, it is now reviving,\u201d said Ghulam Mohammad, a farmer from Langate.<\/p>\n
Farmers have credited the Agriculture Department for promoting mustard cultivation by providing free seeds and technical guidance. \u201cOfficials encouraged us to take up oilseed cultivation and supported us throughout. Those who didn\u2019t opt for it are now regretting after seeing the bumper crop,\u201d Mohammad added.<\/p>\n
Many farmers are hopeful of better household self-sufficiency and additional income. Abdul Khaliq, another farmer, said he cultivated mustard on 10 kanals of land and expects to meet his family\u2019s cooking oil needs. \u201cGiven the yield, I may even have surplus oil to sell, which will boost my income,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Traditionally, much of Kashmir\u2019s agricultural land remains fallow after the paddy harvest. However, farmers are now being encouraged to adopt a second crop. \u201cAfter paddy, farmers usually leave their land unused. They should instead grow oilseeds or wheat to increase their income manifold,\u201d Khaliq added.<\/p>\n
A senior Agriculture Department official said misconceptions about soil fertility loss due to double cropping had discouraged farmers in the past. \u201cThere 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,\u201d the officer said.<\/p>\n
He added that mustard is usually sown between October and November and harvested by the end of May.<\/p>\n
Highlighting the expansion, the official said around 6,700 hectares of land have been brought under oilseed cultivation in Kupwara this year, up from 4,300 hectares last year. \u201cThe department is working closely with farmers to maximise land use during the Rabi season and improve farm incomes,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
He also urged farmers to take full advantage of government schemes and departmental support to improve productivity and earnings.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, farmers from Langate and nearby areas have appealed for local oilseed grinding facilities. \u201cDue to the absence of grinding machines in our area, we are forced to travel long distances. If such units are provided at block level, it will reduce our burden and also create employment opportunities for local youth,\u201d said a farmer, reflecting a common demand among growers. (Agency)<\/p>\n\n