DRMRIJ-31, popularly known as Giriraj, is a high-yielding mustard variety developed by the Directorate of Rapeseed Mustard Research (DRMR) in Bharatpur, Rajasthan. This variety is high in oil content and is well-suited for cultivation in the semi-arid regions of India.
DRMRIJ-31 is a hybrid variety of Brassica juncea and is a result of extensive research and experimentation by DRMR. The variety was released for commercial cultivation in 2014 and has since then gained popularity among mustard growers across the country.
Giriraj mustard is known for its high yield potential, with an average yield of 16-18 quintals per hectare. It has a short maturity period of 115-120 days and is grown during the rabi season in India (October to March). This variety is resistant to many diseases, including alternaria leaf spot, powdery mildew, and white rust.
The oil content in Giriraj mustard is around 38%, which makes it suitable for oil extraction, culinary purposes and for making mustard oil cake. The oil obtained from this variety is of superior quality and has a low erucic acid content, making it relatively healthy for consumption.
Giriraj mustard is grown in states like Rajasthan, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Madhya Pradesh. The seeds of this variety are slightly larger than the other mustard varieties and are reddish-brown in colour.
Farmers are recommended to use seed treatment with Mancozeb or Carbendazim before sowing the seeds to prevent any seed-borne diseases. The ideal temperature range for Giriraj mustard cultivation is 20-30°C, and it requires well-drained soil with good fertility.
In conclusion, Giriraj mustard variety (DRMRIJ-31) is a high-yielding, disease-resistant, and oil-rich variety that has gained popularity among mustard farmers in India. With its superior quality oil and good adaptability to semi-arid regions, it is a valuable crop for agricultural production in the country.