Understanding Mustard Stalk: Sourcing, Composition, and Efficient Pellet Production️

Mustard Stalk Availability Across States:

Mustard Stalk, a prominent agricultural residue in India, is abundantly available in states like Assam, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, West Bengal, and others. According to recent data, these states contribute significantly to the biomass availability required for various applications.

State-wise Quantity of Mustard Stalk (thousand tonnes):

Mustard Growth Cycle:

Mustard is a Rabi crop cultivated from October to March, with harvesting typically done in April and May. This timing ensures optimal growth in the cooler months, crucial for mustard cultivation.

What is Mustard Stalk?

Mustard Stalk refers to the residual plant material left after harvesting mustard seeds. It includes stems, leaves, and other biomass components.

Physical and Chemical Composition:

Mustard Stalk primarily consists of cellulose (around 35-45%), hemicellulose (20-30%), lignin (20-25%), and other organic compounds. These components make it suitable for pellet production due to its fibrous nature.

Handling by Farmers:

Farmers typically gather Mustard Stalk post-harvest, allowing it to sun-dry for a few days to reduce moisture content. They then load it onto tractor trolleys for transport to collection depots or directly to pellet plants.

Convenient Handling Methods:

Establishing collection depots in each taluka facilitates easier aggregation of Mustard Stalk from fields. Farmers can transport the stalk themselves or utilize supply chain companies for efficient collection.

Selling Mustard Stalk:

Most farmers sell Mustard Stalk after it has dried adequately. This ensures better quality and market readiness.

Collection Window:

The bulk of Mustard Stalk is available immediately post-harvest. Timely collection is crucial to prevent deterioration in quality and ensure sufficient supply for pellet production.

Advantages for Pellet Production:

Mustard Stalk's fibrous composition and low moisture content post-drying make it ideal for pelletization. Its uniform size and density enhance efficiency in pellet plants.

SERVODAY's Role in Pellet Production:

SERVODAY offers advanced pellet plant solutions tailored for processing Mustard Stalk efficiently. Their technology ensures high-quality pellets suitable for use in biomass-based power plants like those operated by NTPC.

Government Incentives:

Central and State governments provide incentives for promoting the use of agricultural residues like Mustard Stalk. These include subsidies on equipment and support for establishing biomass supply chains.

Incentives from Government:

Government incentives vary but often include subsidies on equipment such as pellet mills and financial support for establishing biomass collection infrastructure. Figures can be obtained from respective government agriculture and energy departments.

Dry Mustard Stalk Price and Calorific Value:

Dry Mustard Stalk is priced between Rs. 1200 to Rs. 2000 per tonne across various states after the harvesting season. It has a calorific value ranging from approximately 3500 to 4000 Kcal/Kg, making it a valuable biomass resource for energy production.

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