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The Indian rupee weakened by 20 paise against the US dollar on Wednesday, closing at 96.56.The rupee opened at 96.36 against the US dollar and depreciated by 20 paise to settle at 96.56 at the close of trade.Meanwhile, Indian equity benchmarks ended lower. The Sensex fell 715.06 points, or 0.92 percent, to close at 76,755.05, while the Nifty declined 191.45 points, or 0.79 percent, to settle at 23,996.25.Market breadth remained negative, with 1,443 shares advancing, 2,616 declining, and 170 remaining unchanged on the NSE.read more :- Cotton Entrepreneurs Seek Removal of RCM and Minimum Electricity Charges in Madhya Pradesh

Entrepreneurs Raise Issue of Abolishing RCM and Minimum Charges on CottonA meeting of local entrepreneurs was organized during the visit of the State President and Malwa Regional President of Laghu Udyog Bharati to the city. The discussion primarily focused on issues related to the Reverse Charge Mechanism (RCM) applicable to cotton and the minimum charges being levied by the MPEB (Madhya Pradesh Electricity Board).Office bearers and members of the local unit of Laghu Udyog Bharati welcomed State President Rajesh Mishra and Malwa Regional President Rajendra Dubey upon their arrival. During the subsequent meeting, entrepreneurs inquired about the organization's functioning and its initiatives for the benefit of the industry, while also presenting their key concerns to the State President.The issue concerning the cotton industry took center stage. Entrepreneurs explained that the RCM system applicable to cotton was causing a significant portion of their working capital to get tied up in GST, thereby adversely affecting industrial operations.In response, State President Rajesh Mishra stated that this matter would soon be placed before the GST Council, and necessary efforts would be made to find a solution. Regarding the minimum charges levied by the electricity company, he mentioned that the organization was already actively pursuing the matter and promised to raise it again forcefully with the concerned senior officials.The State President elaborated on the functioning of Laghu Udyog Bharati, the importance of the organization, and the work undertaken for the welfare of the industrial sector.During the meeting, the Sendhwa unit of Laghu Udyog Bharati was also reconstituted. Ankit Agrawal was unanimously appointed as the President of the Sendhwa unit, and Nilesh Agrawal was appointed as the Secretary.At the conclusion of the meeting, members of the Sendhwa unit expressed their gratitude to the State President for the organization's efforts to resolve tax-related issues concerning cotton.Prominent attendees included Media In-charge Durgesh Sharma, former President Suresh Bagrecha, Joint Secretary Sharad Goyal, Girdharilal Goyal, Narendra Mittal, Mukesh Shekhawat, Shivam Joshi, Rajkumar Mangal, Harpalsingh Chhabra, Hemant Sharma, Nilesh Tayal, and Gopal Goyal, along with other entrepreneurs.READ MORE :- India Strengthens Global Cotton Position, Ranks Second in Production and Consumption

India's Cotton Sector Strengthening Its Position in the Global MarketNew Delhi: India is continuously strengthening its position in the global cotton industry. India ranks first in the world in terms of cotton cultivation area, while it is the second-largest country in terms of both cotton production and consumption.India's cotton production for the year 2025-26 is estimated at 290.91 lakh bales, while domestic consumption is projected to reach 328 lakh bales. India contributes approximately 19% to global fiber production. Meanwhile, in 2024-25, India's share in global cotton exports stood at approximately 3.37% by value, amounting to around US$ 11.49 billion.India is the only country in the world where all four recognized species of cotton are cultivated. These include *Gossypium arboreum* and *Gossypium herbaceum* (Asian cotton), *Gossypium barbadense* (Egyptian, Sea Island, and Peruvian cotton), and *Gossypium hirsutum* (American or Upland cotton).Cultivation Spanning Three Agro-Ecological ZonesCotton is a *Kharif* and semi-xerophytic crop, primarily cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions. Optimal growth requires temperatures between 21–27°C, at least 210 frost-free days, and rainfall ranging from 50–100 cm.Well-drained black (Regur) soil and alluvial soil are considered the most suitable for cotton cultivation. Cotton cultivation in India spans three agro-ecological zones across nine major states:Northern Zone: Punjab, Haryana, and RajasthanCentral Zone: Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Madhya PradeshSouthern Zone: Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and KarnatakaMajor Challenges Facing the Cotton SectorLow productivity is a key challenge for India's cotton sector. Factors such as erratic rainfall, drought conditions, and the fact that approximately 67% of the cotton area relies on rain-fed farming impact production capacity.Additionally, infestations of the pink bollworm and other pests lead to crop losses and increase costs for farmers.Price volatility in the cotton market, limited market infrastructure, and income-related risks affect farmers. Meanwhile, the limited production of Extra-Long Staple (ELS) cotton and inconsistencies in fiber quality pose challenges to India's export competitiveness.By enhancing productivity, producing higher-quality cotton, and adopting modern agricultural techniques, India can further strengthen its role in the global cotton supply chain.READ MORE :- El Niño May Boost Cotton Cultivation in India, Offering Temporary Relief to Textile Industry

Haryana: Canal breach in Dabwali affects 15 acres of cotton crop; farmers plug the breach themselvesHisar (Haryana): Negligence by the Irrigation Department came to light on Tuesday near Sakta Khera village in the Dabwali subdivision of Sirsa district, Haryana, when a link canal of the Lohgarh Minor—originating from the Maujgarh Head—breached. Water flooding the surrounding fields affected approximately 15 acres of cotton crops, causing heavy losses for the farmers.Reports indicate that the canal breached near the land of farmer Hazoor Singh Mann, causing water to spread rapidly into the fields. Farmers allege that despite being informed, senior officials from the Irrigation Department failed to reach the site on time. With only one department employee present, the farmers had to take it upon themselves to manage the situation.Local villagers and farmers rushed to the site and began plugging the breach using soil and debris. Working tirelessly until late at night, they managed to control the water flow, thereby preventing further damage.Local farmer leader Mitthu Kamboj stated that had the farmers not taken immediate action, the crop loss would have been far greater. He noted that the canal in question has long been in a dilapidated state; while demands for its repair and reconstruction with concrete have been raised repeatedly, no concrete action has been taken so far.Farmers' organizations state that several old canals in the Dabwali region are frequently breaching due to poor maintenance, constantly putting crops and agricultural land at risk. These organizations have demanded that the Haryana government conduct a comprehensive survey of the region's irrigation infrastructure and reconstruct the dilapidated canals to prevent such incidents in the future.READ MORE :- El Niño May Boost Cotton Cultivation in India, Offering Temporary Relief to Textile Industry

Rise in Cotton Cultivation Expected Amidst El Niño; Textile Industry Gets Temporary ReliefNew Delhi: The prospect of below-normal rainfall due to El Niño is being viewed as a positive sign for the Indian cotton sector. Experts believe that in conditions of scanty rainfall, farmers may prioritize cotton cultivation over water-intensive crops, potentially offsetting the initial shortfall in sowing.According to the Ministry of Agriculture, cotton sowing covered 92.53 lakh hectares across the country by July 17, marking a 5.96% decline compared to the 98.39 lakh hectares recorded during the same period last year. While sowing has decreased in Maharashtra and Gujarat, increases have been noted in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.L.K. Gupta, Chairman and Managing Director of the Cotton Corporation of India (CCI), stated that if rainfall remains limited, farmers will be more inclined towards cotton cultivation, as the crop can yield well even with relatively less water. He expressed confidence that the availability of raw cotton for the domestic textile industry would remain adequate. He added that the CCI is working to supply cotton directly to mills to keep prices in check and ensure farmers receive better returns.The government has waived the approximately 11% import duty on raw cotton until October 2026. This move is expected to ensure the availability of raw material until the arrival of the new domestic crop and alleviate price pressure on textile products.However, industry experts have advised caution regarding global risks. According to Raja M. Shanmugham, former President of the Tirupur Exporters Association, the impact of El Niño is not limited to India alone. If production declines in major cotton-producing nations, global supplies could be disrupted, leading to a rise in raw material prices. In such a scenario, the CCI’s buffer stock and timely supply would prove crucial for the industry. According to data from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), India's raw cotton imports rose by 54.9% to reach $1.89 billion in the 2025-26 fiscal year (FY26), while exports declined by 33.9% to $436.37 million. Although the situation in the domestic market remains stable, the impact of El Niño on global cotton supplies will continue to be a key factor to watch.READ MORE :- India’s White Gold: Cotton Powering Farm-to-Fabric Growth

India's White Gold: Weaving Prosperity from Farm to FabricFrom the cotton fields of India to wardrobes across the world, cotton weaves together agriculture, industry, trade, and livelihoods. Often called "White Gold," cotton is among India's most important commercial crops, supporting nearly 6 million farmers and providing employment to 40–50 million people across processing, textiles, and trade. India contributes about 23% of global cotton fibre production, making cotton a cornerstone of the country's rural economy and export sector.India's association with cotton dates back thousands of years, when its textiles were prized across Asia and Europe. During the Swadeshi movement, cotton became a symbol of self-reliance, and today it continues that legacy under the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat. India is the only country cultivating all four recognised cotton species and ranks first globally in cotton cultivation area and second in production and consumption, producing nearly 291 lakh bales in 2025–26.Cotton cultivation is concentrated across eleven states, with nearly 62% grown under rain-fed conditions. Beyond fibre, cottonseed provides edible oil, livestock feed, biomass fuel, and surgical cotton, making the crop valuable far beyond the textile industry.The Government has adopted a multi-pronged strategy to strengthen the sector. The Minimum Support Price (MSP) ensures remunerative returns, while the Cotton Corporation of India (CCI) procures cotton whenever market prices fall below MSP. During the 2025–26 season, CCI procured over 105 lakh bales worth ₹41,530 crore, benefiting millions of farmers.To raise productivity, the Mission for Cotton Productivity aims to develop climate-resilient, pest-resistant, and high-yielding varieties, with special emphasis on Extra Long Staple (ELS) cotton. Complementing this, demonstrations under the National Food Security Mission have recorded significant yield gains through improved planting technologies.Digital initiatives such as the Kapas Kisan App have made MSP procurement transparent and farmer-friendly by enabling online registration, slot booking, and Aadhaar-linked payments. Meanwhile, Kasturi Cotton Bharat is positioning Indian cotton as a premium global brand through certification, blockchain-enabled traceability, and quality assurance.India also remains an important player in global cotton trade, exporting fibre, yarn, fabrics, and garments to major markets, including the United States, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.Rooted in history yet driven by innovation, India's cotton sector continues to evolve through better technology, stronger policy support, and improved market access. From farm to fabric, cotton remains a vital thread connecting millions of livelihoods while strengthening India's agricultural economy and global textile leadership.read more :- Rupee Opens 13 Paise Lower at 96.36 Against Dollar.

The rupee opened lower at 96.36/$.On Wednesday, the Indian rupee opened 13 paise lower against the dollar at 96.36, whereas it had closed at 96.23 on Tuesday.The Sensex was up 92.47 points or 0.12 percent at 77,562.58, and the Nifty was down 144.75 points or 0.60 percent at 24,042.95.READ MORE :- Rupee Gains 18 Paise to Close at 96.23 Against US Dollar

The Indian rupee strengthened by 18 paise against the US dollar on Tuesday to close at 96.23.On Tuesday, the Indian rupee opened at 96.41 against the US dollar and closed at 96.23, recording a decline of 18 paise during the trading session.Indian equity markets closed lower on Tuesday. The Sensex declined 238.41 points, or 0.31 percent, to settle at 77,470.11, while the Nifty fell 50.80 points, or 0.21 percent, to close at 24,187.70.Market breadth was mixed, with 2,087 shares advancing, 1,942 shares declining and 180 shares remaining unchanged.read more :- Maharashtra: Cotton Acreage in Ahilyanagar Crosses 1.33 Lakh Hectares

Maharashtra: Cotton acreage in Ahilyanagar crosses 1.33 lakh hectaresAhilyanagar, Maharashtra: Farmers in Maharashtra's Ahilyanagar district have prioritized cotton cultivation this year, despite a delayed monsoon and scanty rainfall in several areas. So far, cotton has been sown across an area of 1,33,010 hectares in the district. Taluka-wise data indicates that Shevgaon has recorded the highest cotton acreage, followed by Nevasa and Pathardi.The average area for Kharif crops in the district is 5,79,768 hectares. This year, the monsoon arrived with a delay of nearly a month, directly impacting Kharif sowing operations. Consequently, cotton sowing also lagged behind the scheduled timeline. Nevertheless, farmers have continued to include cotton among their key crops.According to Agriculture Department data, the sowing window for cotton has largely closed. As a result, the total cotton acreage in the district this year is expected to be lower than that of the previous year. No cotton sowing has taken place in Akole taluka so far. Meanwhile, cotton acreage remains relatively low in the Ahilyanagar, Jamkhed, Kopargaon, Parner, and Rahata talukas.Shevgaon taluka leads the district with 42,037 hectares under cotton cultivation. It is followed by Nevasa (29,383 hectares) and Pathardi (26,382 hectares). Cotton cultivation has also been recorded across 18,623 hectares in Rahuri.Many parts of the district are still awaiting adequate rainfall. Except for the western part of Akole taluka, a rainfall deficit persists in several areas. There are concerns that the cotton crop could be adversely affected by the lack of rain. Farmers are now pinning their hopes on future rainfall to improve the condition of the crop.Despite the delayed rains, cotton remains a preferred choice among farmers. However, a clear picture of the actual decrease or increase in cotton acreage compared to the previous year will emerge only after the final sowing figures are released.READ MORE :- Rajasthan Kharif Sowing Reaches 11,011 Thousand Hectares, 67% of Target Achieved

Kharif sowing in Rajasthan reaches 11,011.443 thousand hectares; 67% of target achievedKharif sowing in Rajasthan is progressing rapidly. According to the Agriculture Department's revised report dated July 17, 2026, total Kharif crop sowing in the state has covered an area of 11,011.443 thousand hectares. This represents 67 percent of the set target of 16,539 thousand hectares.As per the report, cereal crops have been sown across 4,425.537 thousand hectares, which is 75 percent of the target. Within this category, Pearl Millet (Bajra) has been sown over 2,882.775 thousand hectares. Additionally, Maize has been sown on 862.178 thousand hectares, Sorghum (Jowar) on 489.301 thousand hectares, and Paddy on 190.848 thousand hectares.Sowing of pulse crops has covered a total area of 2,662.720 thousand hectares, amounting to 64 percent of the target. This includes Green Gram (Moong) sown on 1,822.561 thousand hectares, Moth Bean on 473.481 thousand hectares, Black Gram (Urad) on 308.756 thousand hectares, Cowpea (Chawla) on 54.684 thousand hectares, and Pigeon Pea (Arhar) on 3.121 thousand hectares.Oilseed crops have been sown across a total area of 1,948.667 thousand hectares, representing 71 percent of the target. This includes Groundnut sown on 987.465 thousand hectares and Soybean on 854.558 thousand hectares.Among other crops, Cluster Bean (Guar) has been sown on 1,152.661 thousand hectares, which is 45 percent of the target. Meanwhile, Cotton has been sown on 526.307 thousand hectares, achieving 73 percent of the set target of 720 thousand hectares. Sugarcane has been sown across 4.625 thousand hectares.According to Agriculture Department data, sowing of several major Kharif crops in Rajasthan is ahead compared to last year. However, total sowing has currently reached 67 percent of the set target, and the acreage under Kharif crops is likely to increase further in the coming days.READ MORE :- India Targets Higher Cotton Production and Global Market Growth

India’s ‘White Gold’ – Cotton: Focus on Strengthening Production and Global Market PresenceNew Delhi: India is strengthening its position in the global cotton industry. According to a government factsheet released on Monday, India ranks first globally in terms of cotton cultivation area and second in both cotton production and consumption.Government data projects India's cotton production at 290.91 lakh bales for the 2025-26 period, with domestic consumption expected to reach approximately 328 lakh bales. India contributes about 19 percent to global fiber production.The government stated that recent initiatives in the cotton sector focus on enhancing productivity, quality, market access, and value addition. Farmers receive price support through the Minimum Support Price (MSP) mechanism during periods of price decline. Furthermore, a target has been set to increase cotton production to 498 lakh bales by 2031 under the ‘Mission for Cotton Productivity.’According to the government, initiatives such as technology demonstrations, digital procurement, and traceability are improving cotton productivity and quality. These measures are expected to boost the competitiveness of Indian farmers and the industry in the global cotton market.Due to its economic significance, cotton is referred to as India’s ‘White Gold.’ The crop supports the livelihoods of approximately 60 lakh farmers. Cotton is cultivated across an area of about 114.84 lakh hectares in the country. Additionally, activities related to processing, trade, and the textile value chain provide employment to around 4–5 crore people.Cotton also plays a vital role in earning foreign exchange through the export of fiber, yarn, fabric, and garments. In 2024-25, India exported approximately 18 lakh bales of cotton, accounting for about 3.37 percent of global cotton exports. The value of cotton exports stood at US$ 11.49 billion in the 2024-25 fiscal year. The United States was the largest market for Indian cotton textile and made-up products, accounting for a 26.35 percent share of exports. Other key markets included Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, the United Kingdom, and the United Arab Emirates.Cotton cultivation in India takes place primarily across nine states. These are categorized into northern, central, and southern agro-climatic zones. Additionally, cotton is also cultivated in Odisha and Tamil Nadu.READ MORE :- India Seeks to Reclaim Its Global Textile Leadership