India is preparing for large-scale cultivation of herbicide-tolerant mustard hybrids during the 2026–27 rabi season. The new varieties are designed to combat the parasitic weed Orobanche, which significantly reduces mustard productivity and affects domestic edible oil production.

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• India will begin wider cultivation of herbicide-tolerant mustard hybrids in the 2026–27 rabi season.
• The hybrids are resistant to imidazolinone (IMI) herbicides used for weed control.
• Technology is aimed at tackling Orobanche, a major parasitic weed affecting mustard crops.
• Orobanche attaches to mustard roots and absorbs water and nutrients from the plant.
• The weed has been a major factor behind reduced mustard yields in several regions.
• Mustard is one of India’s most important oilseed crops, especially in northern states.
• Improving mustard productivity can help reduce dependence on edible oil imports.
• India imported around 16 million tonnes of edible oils in 2024–25.
• The import bill for edible oils was estimated at about ₹1.6 lakh crore.
• New hybrids are expected to provide farmers with improved weed-management options.
• Scientists believe the technology can support higher yields and better crop performance.
• Experts have advised careful and responsible use of herbicide-resistant technology.
• Overdependence on a single herbicide may allow weeds to develop resistance over time.
• Researchers recommend integrated weed-management practices alongside the new hybrids.
• Crop rotation and diversified farming strategies can help maintain long-term effectiveness.
• Balanced use of technology is considered essential for sustainable agricultural productivity.