Page 116 - Haryana Water Resources Atlas 2025

Distribution of Mustard during Rabi Season (2023-2024)

N
ustard is the second-most significant and well-known winter oilseed crop in
India. It is typically cultivated during the Rabi season due to its preference for a
W E
Mdry and chilly climate. The temperature range required for mustard crops is
between 10°C and 25°C. Suitable regions for mustard cultivation have an annual rainfall
ranging from 625 to 1000 mm. Mustard cannot grow in cold weather; it requires bright S
skies and circumstances free from frost. In addition to these, agroclimatic conditions, Scale
government policies and programs, market demand and prices, and the accessibility of Kms
input resources all have an impact on the pattern of mustard cultivation in Haryana 0 12.5 25 50 75 100
Haryana ranks as the second largest producer of mustard in the country, following
Rajasthan. The southern part of Haryana has a greater coverage of mustard crops.
Mahendrgarh, Bhiwani, and Rewari are the top three districts in terms of mustard
coverage in Haryana (Graph 45). As shown in Figure 75, mustard cultivation is mainly
concentrated in the southern and southwestern regions of the state. The districts of
Bhiwani, Hisar and Sirsa exhibit a higher intensity of mustard cultivation. In contrast,
districts such as Faridabad, Karnal, Panchkula, Mewat, Kaithal, Yamunanagar, Rohtak
and Palwal show a more uniform and slightly lower intensity of cultivation.
This pattern can be attributed to the lower availability of irrigation facilities in these
regions compared to the northern region. Additionally, the lower input costs of mustard
cultivation and its compatibility as an intercrop with sugarcane, which allows for
harvesting within three to four months, contribute to its popularity. Given the growing
demand for and cost of edible oils, it is critical to promote mustard farming. Considering
mustard requires fewer inputs than wheat, it is a more profitable crop. Moreover, in areas
with low or pressured water levels, growing mustard might aid with crop diversification
throughout the Rabi season.

Graph 45. District-wise Mustard area (2023-2024)

Figure 75. Distribution of Mustard during Rabi season (2023-2024)
Data Source-HARSAC
Haryana Water Resources Atlas 98|