India is known for its diverse agricultural production, with several states contributing significantly to the cultivation of various crops. Among these, mustard holds a special place as an important oilseed crop. Its production is vital for cooking oil, spices and other uses, making it a key part of the agricultural economy in India. In this article, we will know about the largest mustard producing Indian state.
Mustard Production in India
India’s mustard production is set to reach a record high in the 2023-24 year, with a target of 131.4 lakh tonnes. This marks an increase from the 126.43 lakh tonnes produced in 2022-23, highlighting the growing importance of mustard as a key crop in the country.
Know About Mustard
Mustard is made from the seeds of mustard plants like white, brown or black mustard. The seeds are mixed with water, vinegar or other liquids to create a flavorful paste or sauce ranging from sweet to spicy. Widely used worldwide, mustard enhances meat, vegetables, sauces and cuisines across India, Europe, Asia and more.
Largest Mustard Producing State in India 2024
Rajasthan is the largest mustard-producing state in India, contributing approximately 45-49% of the country’s total production. The state’s climate and soil are ideal for growing mustard, especially in regions like Alwar, Hanumangarh, Sriganganagar and Bharatpur. With advanced farming techniques and high-yielding varieties, Rajasthan continues to dominate in mustard protection.
Contribution of Other States in Mustard Production
While Rajasthan leads, other states also play an important role in mustard production:
- Haryana: Contributing 12.44%, Haryana is the second-largest mustard producer. The state benefits from fertile lands and modern farming methods.
- Madhya Pradesh: Producing 11.32%, Madhya Pradesh is another key mustard-growing state, known for its diverse agriculture.
- Uttar Pradesh: With a share of 10.60%, Uttar Pradesh ranks fourth in mustard production, supported by its large agricultural base.
- West Bengal: Adding 7.53%, West Bengal plays a significant role in mustard cultivation, especially in areas with small and marginal farmers.
Why Mustard is Important?
Mustard is widely used in India, mainly for extracting mustard oil, which is a popular cooking oil. It is also used in making mustard seeds, which are essential in Indian cuisine. The crop provides livelihood to millions of farmers and supports industries like oil mills.