Farmers in Cumilla are increasingly turning to BINA Mustard-9, a high-yield variety known for its tolerance to temporary waterlogging caused by heavy rains. With a lifespan of 80–84 days and strong profitability, this mustard cultivar is gaining popularity among growers.
A field day was organized in Kalirbazar, Cumilla Sadar Dakshin Upazila, to promote mustard cultivation. The event, hosted by the BINA sub-centre with support from the Sadar Dakshin Upazila Agricultural Extension Department and funding from the BINA Research Program Strengthening Project, brought together agricultural experts and farmers.
Dr. Mohammad Abul Kalam Azad, Director General of the Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture (BINA), attended as chief guest, with Ayub Mahmood, Additional Director (Acting) of the Agriculture Extension Department, Cumilla Region, presiding. Other distinguished speakers included Dr. Mohammad Mahabubul Alam Tarafdar, Project Director of the BINA Research Program Strengthening Project, and several agricultural officials and researchers.
Speakers highlighted the advantages of newly developed mustard varieties, noting that BINA Mustard-9 offers a short growing period of 82–86 days and an average yield of 1.8–2.1 tons per hectare. Farmers can cultivate boro rice in the same field after harvesting mustard, optimizing land use and profitability.
This year, mustard has been cultivated on 16,990 hectares in Cumilla, with an expected production of 23,786 metric tons. Around 50 farmers participated in the field day, which was conducted by Scientific Assistant Mohammad Arif Hossain.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
