Rising Threat from Orobanche aegyptiaca

Mustard is India’s largest indigenous source of edible oil, cultivated over nearly nine million hectares. Major mustard-producing states include Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana and West Bengal.
The crop contributes over 4 million tonnes (mt) to India’s annual indigenous edible oil production of about 10.5–10.6 mt.

Rising Threat from Orobanche aegyptiaca

Mustard cultivation is increasingly under threat from Orobanche aegyptiaca, a parasitic weed that has emerged as a serious challenge, particularly in Haryana and Rajasthan.

Orobanche attaches itself to the roots of mustard plants and:

• Extracts nutrients, carbon and water
• Causes wilting, yellowing and stunted growth
• Leads to significant yield losses

Why Orobanche is a “Hidden Threat”

Orobanche is often described as the “No. 1 hidden threat” to mustard crops because:

• It remains underground during early stages
• Forms a direct connection with the host plant’s roots
• Damage occurs well before its shoots emerge above the soil

By the time the parasite becomes visible, irreversible crop damage due to prolonged nutrient and water diversion has already taken place.

Impact on Productivity and Food Security

The infestation poses a serious risk to:

• Mustard seed yields
• Farmer incomes
• India’s edible oil self-reliance

Given mustard’s central role in India’s edible oil basket, controlling Orobanche infestation is crucial for agricultural sustainability and food security.