India’s cotton production for the 2024-25 cropping season is poised to mirror last year’s levels, despite a decline in acreage. Favourable factors such as timely rainfall and reduced pest pressure have contributed to higher yields, offsetting the impact of the smaller area under cultivation.
While the cotton acreage has shrunk by 11 lakh hectares (lh) to 112.76 lakh ha compared to the previous year’s 123.71 lakh ha, experts remain optimistic about the overall crop condition. YG Prasad, Director of ICAR-Central Institute of Cotton Research in Nagpur, stated that the crop is in better condition than the previous year and is continuing to improve. He anticipates higher yields, resulting in a production level similar to the previous year.
According to the Agriculture Ministry’s latest data, India’s cotton production in 2023-24 stood at 325.22 lakh bales of 170 kg each.
Pest attacks have been less severe this year, with a notable decrease in pink bollworm (PBW) and sucking pests. The use of hybrid varieties resistant to sucking pests has further aided in pest control. However, PBW remains a potential threat, particularly in the northern regions.
Bhagirath Chaudhary, Director of South Asia Biotech Centre, highlighted the positive impact of low PBW infestation in the North on cottonseed quality. In the Central and South regions, while PBW is under control, root rot is a concern that requires immediate attention. Chaudhary expressed hope that the 2024 Kharif season would mark a turning point for cotton production, reversing the losses incurred in the previous 3-4 years.
Industry experts and traders are also optimistic about the crop’s prospects. Anand Poppat, a broker in Gujarat, estimates the crop size to reach around 361 lakh bales due to increased yields. Pradeep Jain, President of Khandesh Gin Press Factory Owners and Traders Development Association, Jalgaon, noted the excellent crop condition in the Khandesh area and anticipated better quality and yields than last year.
While recent rains caused some damage, the overall crop health remains promising across states like Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka. However, it’s still early to make definitive predictions about the final crop size, as the crop has been delayed by a month in some regions.
