Sirajganj Farmers Celebrate Bumper Mustard Harvest

Harvesting and threshing are nearly complete across the district, with farmers reporting increased profits due to both a higher-than-expected yield and strong market demand. Mustard is currently selling for around Tk 2,700 to Tk 2,800 per maund (roughly 40 kg), significantly boosting earnings.

Expansion of Cultivation

This year, mustard was cultivated on 87,125 hectares across the district’s nine upazilas, with farmers expanding their fields by an additional 2,500 hectares, surpassing initial projections. The most productive areas include Tarash, Raiganj, Ullapara, and regions along the Jamuna River.

Popular mustard varieties like Tori-7, Bari-14, Bina-9, and Bina-14 were widely grown, while the uric acid-free Kelania variety flourished in the char areas.

Support from Agricultural Authorities

The Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) played a key role in this year’s success, providing subsidized seeds and fertilizers to small and marginal farmers. Agricultural officers also offered ongoing guidance, ensuring best practices were followed to maximize yields.

Ahsan Shahid Sarkar, Deputy Director of the District Agricultural Extension Department, praised the government's support: “Small farmers received free fertilizers and seeds, and the agriculture department provided guidance. Favorable weather and this support contributed to the bumper mustard harvest.”

Future Prospects

Farmers are especially pleased with the financial gains this season. With production costs low and profits high, many are using their earnings to cover Eid expenses and reinvest in future crops. Sirajganj’s increasing mustard cultivation reinforces its position as a key mustard-producing district in Bangladesh.

As long as government support and favorable weather continue, local farmers remain optimistic about the future of mustard farming in the region.