Decline in Mustard Cultivation in India for 2024-25

The 2024-25 Rabi season has witnessed decline in the area sown under rapeseed and mustard in India. As of January 10, 2025, the area sown was reported at 8.85 million hectares, down by over 500,000 hectares compared to the previous season. This decrease is attributed to low water availability and unfavourable market conditions for mustard.

Water Availability Issues

Water scarcity has emerged as a critical factor affecting mustard cultivation. Farmers in Rajasthan, the leading state in mustard production, reported insufficient irrigation from the Indira Gandhi canal. Many farmers, like Om Prakash, faced the dilemma of reducing their sowing area due to inadequate water supply. Mustard requires multiple irrigation turns, which were not met this season.

Shifts to Alternative Crops

In response to water shortages, many farmers have opted to cultivate less water-intensive crops such as cumin, psyllium husk, and gram. This shift is evident in the testimonies of farmers like Chaudhary Bedprakash, who reported abandoning mustard for alternative crops. The increase in area under crops like barley and wheat further marks this trend.

Impact of Weather Events

Adverse weather conditions, including a dust storm in early December, have also contributed to reduced yields across various crops. Farmers in Jaisalmer estimated losses, with some reporting up to 60 per cent crop damage. This has compounded the challenges faced by those who shifted away from mustard.

Market Dynamics and Pricing

Market conditions have played important role in farmers’ decisions. Last year’s mustard prices were below the minimum support price, discouraging farmers from planting mustard this season. Farmers like Inderpreet Singh opted for potatoes and wheat instead, seeking better returns. The rising prices of wheat and gram have made these crops more attractive.

Implications for Self-Sufficiency

The decline in mustard cultivation poses a threat to India’s goal of self-sufficiency in oilseeds. As the world’s largest importer of vegetable oils, India faces challenges in meeting domestic demand. The Solvent Extractors’ Association of India reported a 16 per cent increase in vegetable oil imports in the first two months of the 2024-25 oil year, indicating growing reliance on imports.

Government Response and Future Prospects

The Government of India is likely to monitor these developments closely. Strategies may be needed to address water scarcity and improve market conditions for mustard. Ensuring adequate irrigation and supporting farmers with better pricing mechanisms could be essential for reviving mustard cultivation in future seasons.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the impact of water scarcity on agricultural productivity in India.
2. Estimate the economic implications of India’s reliance on imported vegetable oils.
3. Point out the factors influencing farmers’ crop choices during the Rabi season.
4. What are the effects of weather variability on crop yields? Discuss with suitable examples.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the impact of water scarcity on agricultural productivity in India.

1. Water scarcity limits irrigation, essential for crop growth, particularly in water-intensive crops like mustard.
2. Regions like Rajasthan heavily depend on canal systems for irrigation, which have faced shortages.
3. Farmers are forced to reduce sown areas or shift to less water-demanding crops, impacting overall productivity.
4. Long-term water scarcity can lead to soil degradation and reduced agricultural output.
5. Government initiatives for water conservation and irrigation infrastructure are critical for sustainable agricultural productivity.

2. Estimate the economic implications of India’s reliance on imported vegetable oils.

1. India is the largest importer of vegetable oils, increasing vulnerability to global market fluctuations.
2. High import levels strain the national economy and contribute to trade deficits.
3. Rising import costs can lead to increased domestic prices for cooking oils, affecting consumer spending.
4. Dependence on imports undermines local agriculture and self-sufficiency goals in oilseed production.
5. Encouraging domestic oilseed cultivation can boost rural economies and create job opportunities.

3. Point out the factors influencing farmers’ crop choices during the Rabi season.

1. Water availability is a primary factor, with farmers opting for crops requiring less irrigation during shortages.
2. Market prices and profitability influence decisions, as seen with mustard prices falling below support levels.
3. Crop rotation practices and soil health considerations can guide farmers towards sustainable choices.
4. Weather patterns and past crop performance impact risk assessments for planting decisions.
5. Government policies and subsidies can either incentivize or discourage specific crop choices.

4. What are the effects of weather variability on crop yields? Discuss with suitable examples.

1. Weather variability, including droughts and storms, directly affects the availability of water for crops.
2. Adverse conditions like dust storms can damage crops, as reported by farmers in Jaisalmer with 60% losses.
3. Temperature fluctuations can alter growth cycles, affecting yields of sensitive crops like mustard.
4. Inconsistent rainfall patterns can lead to crop failures or reduced harvests, impacting food security.
5. Farmers may adapt by changing crop varieties or planting schedules, but this can have mixed success.