MUMBAI, 8 Oct (Commoditiescontrol): India’s cotton production for the 2024-25 season is expected to remain consistent with last year’s output, despite a significant decrease in cultivated area, Hindu Business Line reported. The acreage has declined by 11 lakh hectares, down to 112.76 lakh hectares from last year’s 123.71 lakh hectares, as farmers shift to more profitable crops. However, improved yields, driven by timely rains and lower pest infestations, are likely to offset the reduction in acreage.
According to Hindu Business Line, YG Prasad, Director of the ICAR-Central Institute of Cotton Research in Nagpur, stated that the overall crop condition is better than last year and continues to improve, leading to higher yields. Despite the reduced area, the research body expects production to remain steady.
As per the latest figures from the Agriculture Ministry, India produced 325.22 lakh bales of cotton (170 kg each) during the 2023-24 season.
Prasad also highlighted that pest attacks have been lower this year. “There are fewer reports of Pink Bollworm (PBW), and the incidence of sucking pests is down compared to last year, thanks to the rains. Many hybrids currently in use are more resistant to these pests. While PBW remains a concern, particularly in northern regions where it has emerged, we are advising farmers to use sprays. In the Central and Southern zones, the pest has not yet appeared as it tends to be a late-season issue. Its impact will largely depend on how well farmers manage the situation,” Prasad told the newspaper.
Another expert, Bhagirath Chaudhary, Director of the South Asia Biotech Centre, emphasized that the low infestation of PBW in the North is leading to higher-quality cottonseed, with cotton arrivals picking up pace. In the Central and Southern regions, pest control efforts have kept PBW in check, resulting in strong plant growth, adequate flowering, and good boll formation. However, he noted that root rot remains a concern that must be addressed for optimal yields.
The report also quoted other experts discussing the crop size in key producing states, crop condition, yield growth, and weather conditions. Most experts maintain a positive outlook on the crop’s prospects.
Gujarat-based broker Anand Poppat estimated the crop size to reach around 361 lakh bales, supported by improved yields due to timely rains and reduced pest pressure. Pradeep Jain, President of the Ginners Association in Jalgaon, shared a similarly positive outlook. Atul Ganatra, President of the Cotton Association of India, sounded a note of caution due to recent heavy rains, which may have caused damage and delayed the crop by a month in key regions like Maharashtra and Gujarat. Ramanuj Das Boob, a sourcing agent in Raichur, also expressed optimism about the crop’s prospects.
(By Commoditiescontrol Bureau; +91 98201 30172)