Area expansion and productivity growth of Brassica in Zone-III of India: A comparative analysis across agro-climatic environments

Abstract

Oilseed Brassica (rapeseed–mustard and related Brassica species) is strategically important to India’s edible-oil economy,
farm diversification and self-reliance. Rising mustard oil consumption and India’s global leadership highlight its critical
role in enhancing edible oil self-reliance and food security. Over five decades, India’s Brassica sector transformed
through varietal, technological and policy interventions, targeting 25.45 million tonnes edible-oil production by 2030–
31. This study examines the long-term transformation of Brassica cultivation across AICRP on Rapeseed-Mustard
recommendation Zone-III, covering Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Uttarakhand, over 1976–77 to
2025–26. Using secondary data from official agricultural statistics and research databases, the study analyses changes
in area, production and productivity across five sub-periods. Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) is used to assess
growth trajectories, while the Cuddy–Della Valle Index (CDVI) measures instability after accounting for trend effects.
The results reveal substantial structural and spatial transformation in Indian Brassica production. Zone-III increased its
share of national Brassica production from 69.47% in 1976–77–1985–86 to 71.06% in 2015–16–2025–26, while its area
share declined from 72.09% to 68.08%, indicating stronger productivity gains alongside area expansion. Rajasthan
emerged as the major transformation center, with its area and production shares rising sharply, whereas Uttar Pradesh
experienced a pronounced decline in both measures. National Brassica area, production and productivity recorded
overall CAGRs of 1.54%, 3.79% and 2.22%, respectively, while Zone-III registered 1.45% area and 3.87% production
growth. Productivity increased markedly, although substantial inter-state yield differences persisted. Bihar demonstrated
production and productivity improvement despite contraction in cultivated area, whereas Uttarakhand showed expansion
in area and production within the Western Himalayan region. Instability analysis indicates greater fluctuations in
production than area at the national level, with pronounced regional differences. The findings highlight the need for
location-specific technologies, quality seed systems, climate-resilient varieties, efficient market linkages, processing
infrastructure, farmer producer organizations and stronger local institutions. An integrated productivity–market–
institutional strategy is essential to harness Zone-III’s potential, strengthen farmer profitability and contribute to India’s
edible-oil self-reliance and sustainable agricultural development. Such an approach can support inclusive intensification
while reducing production risks and strengthening resilient regional value chains.