Selection criteria, selection parameters, future research needs and future research strategies for improvement in yellow sarson (Brassica rapa var. Yellow Sarson)

The Oleiferous Brassica species, commonly known as rapeseed-mustard, are one of the economically important agricultural commodities. Rapeseed-mustard comprising eight different species viz., Indian mustard, toria, yellow sarson, brown sarson, gobhi sarson, karan rai, black mustard and taramira, are being cultivated in 53 countries spreading all over the globe . The oil and protein content varies from 37 to 49% and 22-28%, respectively. The rapeseed-mustard, which contributes nearly 80% of the total rabi oilseed production, is a vital component in edible oil sector. The rapeseed- mustard crops are diverse in their agro-climatic requirements and crop management practices. The production constraints facing each of the crops are also diverse in nature. The objective of raising domestic availability of edible oil can be realized only by increasing the productivity of these oilseed crops. Enhancing the production and productivity of the crop assumes significance; not only from the farmers’ viewpoint but also for the edible oil industry and other vertically and horizontally linked enterprises.