New Mustard Hybrids
Context :
The article highlights the introduction of IMI-resistant mustard hybrids to tackle Orobanche infestation, while stressing the need for diversified and sustainable weed-management practices to prevent herbicide resistance.
Prelims-Oriented Pointers
- Indian farmers are expected to begin cultivating imidazolinone-resistant (IMI-resistant) mustard hybrids from the 2026–27 rabi season.
- These hybrids are designed to combat Orobanche, a parasitic weed affecting mustard crops.
- Orobanche attaches to mustard roots and drains water and nutrients from the host plant.
- India imported around 16 million tonnes of edible oils in 2024–25 at a cost of about ₹1.6 lakh crore.
- Mustard is India’s most important oilseed crop for reducing edible oil imports.
- The new hybrids are developed using mutation breeding.
- The technology is based on an enzyme called acetolactate synthase (ALS).
- IMI-resistant mustard contains an ALS enzyme resistant to the herbicide.
- Farmers can spray IMI herbicides directly on fields to control Orobanche without harming the crop.
Mains-Relevant Information (Concise)
- Agricultural Significance
- The article presents IMI-resistant mustard as a solution to losses caused by Orobanche.
- The technology aims to improve mustard productivity and support edible oil production.
- Weed Management
- The hybrids enable chemical control of Orobanche, including weeds attached below the soil surface.
- Farmers have welcomed the technology as it may reduce labour requirements for weeding.
- Sustainability Concerns
- Experts caution against excessive dependence on a single herbicide.
- Repeated use may lead to the emergence of herbicide-resistant weed populations.
- The article warns that herbicide effectiveness could decline over time.
- Need for Diverse Farming Practices
- The article argues that the technology should be part of a broader weed-management strategy.
- It recommends combining herbicides with crop rotation, manual weeding and other control measures.
