In a proud moment for Haryana’s agricultural fraternity, a scientist from the Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University (HAU), Hisar, has been conferred with a prestigious award by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). The honor recognizes the development of a revolutionary frost-resistant variety of mustard, a move that promises to safeguard the livelihoods of millions of oilseed farmers in North India.
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The Achievement: The scientist and their research team have successfully developed a mustard genotype that can withstand severe ground frost, which typically ravages winter crops in December and January. “Frost is the biggest enemy of mustard. This new variety has been engineered with higher physiological tolerance to low-temperature stress, ensuring that the pods do not shrivel or turn black during extreme cold waves,” explained an HAU official.
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Impact on Farming: * Yield Stability: Unlike traditional varieties which see a 30-50% yield drop during frost-heavy years, this new variety maintains stable production.
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Oil Content: The variety also boasts a higher oil percentage (approx. 40-42%), making it highly lucrative for the processing industry.
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Short Maturity: It has a slightly shorter maturity period, allowing farmers to clear their fields in time for the summer crop cycle.
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ICAR’s Citation: During the award ceremony, ICAR officials lauded the HAU scientist for bridging the gap between laboratory research and field-level challenges. The award includes a citation, a plaque, and a cash prize, recognizing the innovation as a “significant contribution to India’s self-reliance in oilseed production (Atmanirbhar Oilseeds).”
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Vice-Chancellor’s Congratulations: The Vice-Chancellor of HAU congratulated the scientist, stating that this recognition reinforces the university’s position as a global leader in dryland and oilseed research. “This award is a tribute to our commitment to climate-resilient agriculture,” he added.
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Availability for Farmers: The university has announced that seeds of this frost-resistant variety will be multiplied on a large scale in the coming season and will be made available through the university’s seed counters and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) by the next Rabi sowing window.
