Corteva and BASF launch game-changing innovation to strengthen and scale India’s mustard production

Corteva India, in strategic partnership with BASF India, proudly unveils the new Clearfield® Production System for Mustard crop. This innovative, non-GM crop system is herbicide-tolerant and aims to improve mustard cultivation through better weed control and higher yield potential.

With an output exceeding 4 million tonnes, mustard plays a pivotal role as the largest contributor among edible oil-yielding crops. Indian farmers cultivate over 8 million hectares each year and face major challenges from parasitic weeds like Orabanche, which can cause yield losses of up to 50%. Severe infestations may even lead to total crop failure. Effective weed management is essential for maintaining crop output and ensuring India’s self-reliance in edible oils.

The Clearfield Technology, including the Kifix® herbicide, is a proprietary innovation of BASF, known for delivering broad-spectrum and selective control against difficult weeds such as Orobanche. At its core, the system integrates Corteva’s advanced and high-yielding genetics, with BASF Clearfield Herbicide-tolerant trait. The mustard seeds developed with the Clearfield trait are non-transgenic and non-genetically modified, achieved through conventional plant-breeding techniques. These seeds will be sold exclusively under the Pioneer brand by Corteva, providing farmers access to high-quality, innovative solutions for mustard cultivation.

Speaking on the occasion of this launch, Dr. Kirodi Lal Meena- Minister for Agriculture, Horticulture stated, “Rajasthan is a vital mustard production hub in India. Our farmers face immense pressure from pests and weeds like Orobanche. The Clearfield Mustard Production System from Corteva and BASF is a welcome innovation. It promises relief and prosperity for our mustard growers, enhancing agricultural productivity, ensuring stable output, and safeguarding farmer livelihoods.”

“BASF is truly delighted to launch the Clearfield® Production System for our Mustard farmers in India. Farming is the biggest job on earth, this moment represents years of commitment to our farmers and to the future of Indian agriculture,” said Giridhar Ranuva, Director, BASF Agricultural Solutions India. “I would like to sincerely thank all stakeholders associated with the project for their trust and partnership. Your support makes it possible for all of us to bring forward technologies that genuinely make a difference—helping farmers manage weeds more effectively and protect the harvests of one of our most important oilseed crops.” 

"The Clearfield Mustard Production System marks a pivotal moment for Indian agriculture, particularly for our dedicated mustard farmers,” said Subroto Geed, President, South Asia at Corteva Agriscience. "Corteva’s science-based innovation within Clearfield mustard provides a powerful solution. It sets a new standard for profitable mustard cultivation for the farmers, equipping them with superior tools for their success and India’s food security."