Rapeseed-Mustard Farming in Begusarai, Bihar, India: A Holistic Exploration of Growth, Economic Viability, and Hindrances

The present study conducted a comprehensive analysis of the rapeseed-mustard sector's economic dynamics in India, with a focus on Bihar's Begusarai district. The study has been carried out with the objectives of analyzing the trend in area, production and productivity along with the cost and return from rapeseed-mustard production. Further the constraints faced by the famers were also documented and ranked. Primary data was collected from 120 rapeseed-mustard growers of District from a cluster of three villages each from two blocks through SRSWOR Technique and secondary data were collected from different published sources. A negative growth rate (CGR) in area (-0.05%) was observed while the growth in production and productivity of Rapeseed-Mustard during 1998-99 to 2018-19 in Bihar was positive and significant. Districts wise analysis in entire period together there was positive Growth in the area, production and productivity. The average cost of cultivation per hectare was ₹ 63,873.1, while the gross income stood at ₹ 83,746.92, yielding a favourable return-to-cost ratio of 1:1.39, implying that rapeseed–mustard fetched an additional return of 39 paisa on each rupee spent. Primary constraints identified included the absence of high-quality seed varieties and elevated transportation expenses, both warranting attentions. To bolster the future of rapeseed-mustard, widespread dissemination of advanced farming techniques and the establishment of processing facilities among smallholders is recommended.