Indian farmers shifting to maize cultivation as soybean, cotton acreage shrinksFarmers across the country have shifted significantly towards maize cultivation while areas dedicated to soybean and cotton farming are declining amid lower-than-expected realisations in the markets.As the country enters the last leg of kharif sowing, India has reported 708.31 lakh hectares of sowing as of July 21, as compared to 680.38 lakh hectares of last year, of which maize recorded the highest jump — from last year’s 61.73 lakh hectares to 71.21 lakh hectares this year.However, oilseeds reported a 6 per cent dip, which is 156.76 lakh hectares as against last year’s 162.80 lakh hectares. Soybean, the main kharif oilseed, was sown over 111.67 lakh hectares this year compared to last year’s 118.96 lakh hectares. Cotton, the major lint crop, has also seen a decrease in the acreage from 102.05 of 202-25 to the present 98.55 lakh hectares of this year.The Solvent and Extractors Association (SEA) – the apex body of edible oil solvent and extractors companies – has expressed concerns about the potential dip in soybean, India’s main summer-sown oilseed crop, acreage nationally.“Soybean acreage has dipped by over 6 per cent compared to the previous year, possibly due to shifting crop preferences and regional weather variability. This trend merits close observation, as soybean remains a crucial pillar in India’s oilseed economy and a major source of oil and meal,” Sanjeeve Asthana, President, SEA, said.Vilas Uphade, a farmer from Latur district of Maharashtra, noted that soybean is currently trading at Rs 4,000 per quintal in the wholesale market.“This is against the government-declared Minimum Support Price (MSP) of Rs 5,328, which is even before the new crop has entered the market. We are expecting a bumper harvest this year, so I worry about what the price conditions will be post the harvest,” he said. With the kharif sowing entering its last phase, prices might see further slide.The demand for maize has increased due to its use as a feedstock for ethanol production.read more :- INR Opens Stronger by 8 Paise at 86.33
Rupee opens 8 paise up at 86.33 as dollar easesThe rupee opened 8 paise up on July 24 as the dollar index eased. The currency opened at 86.33 against the dollar after closing the previous day at 86.41.read more :- Rupee Ends Flat at 86.41/USD
The Indian rupee closed stable at 86.41 per dollar on Wednesday, while it had opened at 86.41 in the morning.The Sensex was up 539.83 points or 0.66 percent at 82,726.64, and the Nifty was up 159 points or 0.63 percent at 25,219.90. About 1882 shares advanced, 1989 shares declined, and 161 shares unchanged.read more :- Cotton textile exports cross $35.6 billion: Giriraj Singh
India’s cotton textile exports crossed $35.6 billion: Giriraj SinghIndia’s total exports of cotton textiles, including cotton yarn, cotton fabrics, made-ups, other textile yarn, fabric made-ups and raw cotton, crossed $35.642 billion during the last three years, Union Minister of Textiles Giriraj Singh informed Parliament on Tuesday.The minister also stated that to enhance cotton productivity and quality, promote innovation and strengthen the entire textile value chain in line with the Vision 2030, a five-year ‘Mission for Cotton Productivity’ was announced by the Finance Minister in the Budget for 2025-26.The Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE) is the nodal department for implementing the Mission, with the Ministry of Textiles as a partner. The Mission aims to boost cotton production through strategic interventions, including research and extension activities across all cotton-growing states.The Mission also proposes to focus on developing climate-smart, pest-resistant, and high-yielding cotton varieties, including Extra Long Staple (ELS) cotton, using advanced breeding and biotechnology tools.A special project on ‘Targeting technologies to agro-ecological zones-large scale demonstration of best practices to enhance cotton productivity’ has been implemented by ICAR- Central Institute for Cotton Research (CICR), Nagpur, in eight major cotton-growing states. The total outlay of the Special Project is Rs 6,032.35 lakhs, the minister further stated.The ‘Mission for Cotton Productivity’ aims to equip farmers with cutting-edge scientific and technological support, enabling higher productivity, superior fibre quality, and improved resilience against climatic and pest-related challenges. Aligned with the Government’s integrated 5F vision, Farm to Fibre to Factory to Fashion to Foreign, the Mission is expected to boost cotton farmers’ incomes, ensure a steady supply of high-quality cotton, and revitalise India’s traditional textile sector, thereby enhancing its global competitiveness, he added.As part of the steps to boost textile exports, the Ministry has also supported Export Promotion Councils in organizing a global mega textile event Bharat TEX 2025 to showcase the strength of the Indian textiles value chain, highlighting the latest progress innovations in textile & fashion Industry and positioning India as the most preferred destination for sourcing and investment in textile sector, the minister said in reply to another question in the Lok Sabha.These collaborations are governed through MoUs that support student and faculty exchanges, joint research initiatives, dual-degree and twinning programs, collaborative curriculum development, and global academic immersion, the minister said.“These international engagements enhance India’s position in the global textile and fashion sector by fostering academic excellence, promoting innovation, and enabling knowledge transfer. They expose students and faculty to global design sensibilities, technological advancements, and emerging trends. By aligning curricula with international standards, these collaborations equip Indian graduates with the skills and insights needed to compete effectively in global markets and strengthen India’s reputation as a hub for creative and technical expertise in textiles and fashion,” the minister explained.read more :- Cotton Exporting Countries in 2025: India's Ranking
Top cotton exporting countries in 2025: See where India standsCotton is one of the most essential natural fibers used worldwide for clothing, home furnishings, and industrial products. As demand for cotton continues to rise, a few countries dominate the global cotton export market. These top exporters not only meet domestic needs but also supply massive quantities to international buyers.With global cotton production projected to hit 117.8 million bales (each weighing roughly 480 pounds) in 2025, here’s a look at the top 5 cotton exporting countries as per the International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC), USDA, 2023–2024 data, and what makes each of them key players in the industry.1. United States – The Global Cotton Powerhouse | Annual Cotton Exports: ~3.1 million tonnes | The United States leads the world in cotton exports thanks to its advanced agricultural practices, large-scale farms, and efficient supply chains. Most US cotton comes from Texas, Mississippi, and other southern states. Known for its high quality, American cotton is a top choice for global textile manufacturers.2. Brazil – Rapid Growth and Strong Export Network | Annual Cotton Exports: ~2.3 million tonnes | Brazil has emerged as a major cotton exporter over the past decade, benefiting from favourable weather and vast agricultural land. Brazilian cotton is primarily exported to Asia and Europe. Investment in modern farming techniques has boosted both output and quality.3. Australia – Premium Quality with Sustainable Practices | Annual Cotton Exports: ~1.7 million tonnes | Australia may produce less cotton than the US or Brazil, but it excels in quality. Known for its long, clean fibers, Australian cotton is favoured in premium textile markets. The country also leads in sustainable farming practices and water-efficient cultivation methods.4. India – A Giant Producer with Limited Exports | Annual Cotton Exports: ~0.8 million tonnes | India is one of the largest producers of cotton globally, but much of it is used domestically. Exports depend on surplus availability. Indian cotton is popular in nearby markets like Bangladesh and Vietnam. The local textile industry consumes a significant portion of the harvest.5. Uzbekistan – Reforming and Rising in Cotton Trade | Annual Cotton Exports: ~0.5 million tonnes | Cotton remains vital to Uzbekistan’s economy. In recent years, the country has focused on modernising its cotton industry and improving labour practices. Efforts to eliminate forced labor and promote ethical farming have improved its global image as a cotton exporter.read more :- Rupee open Falls 05 Paise to 86.41/USD
Rupee opens 5 paise down at 86.41 against the dollarThe rupee opened 5 paise down on July 23 on a marginal rise in dollar index. The currency opened at 86.41 against the dollar after closing the previous day at 86.36.read more :- Indian Rupee lower 11 Paisa, Ends at 86.36 per Dollar
The Indian rupee on tuesday lower 11 paise to close at 86.36 per dollar, while it opened at 86.25 in the morning.At close, the Sensex was down 13.53 points or 0.02 percent at 82,186.81, and the Nifty was down 29.80 points or 0.12 percent at 25,060.90. About 1724 shares advanced, 2126 shares declined, and 172 shares unchanged.read more :- Land submerged in Sirsa, cotton crop destroyed
2K acres flooded in Sirsa, cotton crop wiped out, farmers demand special girdawari.Recent heavy rains in Nathusari Chopta block of Sirsa district have left a trail of devastation across over 2,000 acres of farmland in seven villages. Cotton, guar and groundnut crops have suffered extensive damage due to severe waterlogging, with cotton being the worst hit.In many affected areas, farmers are now being forced to plough under their damaged cotton fields and switch to paddy cultivation, a crop more tolerant to wet conditions — but one that adds to their financial burden.Agricultural land has been inundated in Rupana Ganja (400 acres), Rupana Bishnoi (300 acres), Shakkar Mandoori (500 acres), Shahpuria (150 acres), Naharna (150 acres), Tarkawali (100 acres) and Chaharwala (50 acres). The worst-hit villages — Shakkar Mandoori, Rupana Ganja, and Rupana Bishnoi — account for nearly 1,200 acres of lost cotton crop.I had to plough my entire 7-acre cotton crop,” said Mukesh Kumar, a farmer from Shakkar Mandoori. “Even after pumping out water with motors, the stagnant water rotted the plants.”Other farmers including Anil Kasnia, Baljeet and Virender echoed similar losses.Many of them had taken land on lease and had already invested around Rs 10,000 per acre on cotton. Now, they must spend an additional Rs 6,000Rs 8,000 per acre to prepare and sow paddy.“It’s a double loss,” said Raj Kasnia, another affected farmer. “After rains, saline groundwater rises and damages the soil too. What can a farmer do in such a situation?”Adding to the concern is the overflowing sem nala (drainage canal), which is carrying excess water from the flooded fields. Farmers fear that if the embankment breaches, surrounding villages may be submerged, further damaging standing crops. They have blamed local officials for not cleaning the canal before the monsoon, despite repeated reminders.Farmers have urged the government to conduct a special girdawari (crop loss survey) and announce compensation for the losses.District Agriculture Deputy Director Dr Sukhdev Kamboj confirmed that most of the affected fields fall in salinity-prone zones.“We are advising farmers to switch to short-duration and low-water paddy varieties like Pusa 1509, 1692, 1847 (basmati) and Punjab 126 (parmal),” Dr Kamboj said. “These varieties require 33% less water and mature in about 100 days.”Dr Kamboj also noted that with unpredictable weather patterns, cotton is becoming an increasingly risky crop.This year, cotton was sown on 1.47 lakh acres in Sirsa district, while paddy covered over 1.5 lakh acres.read more :- Haryana : Central team inspects pink bollworm-hit cotton fields
Central team inspected cotton fieldsHisar: A team from Centre’s Agriculture Ministry visited the district to inspect the cotton crop following concerns over pest infestations, particularly the pink bollworm, following complaints from farmers.The team conducted a field inspection in Mangali Jhara village and found traces of pink bollworm in the cotton crop, said officials of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Department today.The officials, however, maintained the infestation is below the economic threshold level and issued advisory to the farmers to stay alert, but not panic.The inspection team included Assistant Plant Protection Officers (APPOs) Laxmikant, KP Sharma and Suraj Beniwal from the Regional Integrated Pest Management Centre (RIPMC), Faridabad, accompanied by Dr Arun Kumar Yadav, Plant Protection Officer from the Haryana Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Department, and Agricultural Development Officer (ADO) Ravinder Antil.Dr Arun Kumar said that they have got information about pink bollworm from the village and intimated the head office at Chandigarh and at the Centre. Farmer Narsi Ram Khichar said that he spotted the pest and alerted the officials of the Agriculture Department couple of days ago.The cotton area in Hisar has steadily declined over the past three years primarily due to recurring pest problems such as pink bollworm. This season, cotton has been sown on approximately 2.1 lakh acres, down from 2.5 lakh acres last year, reflecting waning farmer interest due to consecutive losses.Dr Yadav informed that pesticide sprays are only recommended if four or more bolls per plant are found. Otherwise, farmers are advised to focus on regular field monitoring. The team also observed that last year’s cotton plant residue (banchhatti) is lying in the field which is suspected to have carried the infestation. Officials said that the leftover plant material poses a risk of pink bollworm attacks.On the other hand, some villages, especially in the cotton belt of Adampur in the district, are suffering due to excessive rain. The cotton farmers in villages including Sishwal, Adampur, Ladwi, Mahalsara and Kohli have reported widespread crop damage, with the risk of para wilt growing in standing water.Adampur MLA Chander Prakash visited the affected areas to assess the situation and took the officials of the Irrigation Department with him. The MLA directed the officials to take immediate action to drain water from fields and minimise crop loss.The Congress MLA also asked the government to conduct a survey to assess the losses and demanded immediate financial relief to affected farmers.read more:- INR Opens Stronger by 04 Paise at 85.25
Rupee opens marginally 04 paise higher at 86.25 against dollar Indian rupee opened with marginal gains at 86.25 per dollar on Tuesday versus Monday's close of 86.29.read more :- Sucker Pest Management in Cotton: Post Sowing Steps
For integrated management of sucking pests in cotton crop, do these things after sowingAfter extensive rainfall in Gujarat, most of the farmers have enthusiastically sowed Kharif crops. To keep the crops grown after sowing safe from diseases and pests, various efforts of crop maintenance are being made by the farmers. The state government has also always been with the farmers to prevent crop damage due to diseases and pests. Continuing the same, the Agriculture Director Office-Gandhinagar has issued guidelines suggesting important steps for integrated management of sucking pests after sowing of cotton.For management of sucking pests after sowing of cotton, do these things:* Weed and hoe the weeds in the paddy field, especially plants and grasses like Gadar, Kanksi, Wild Bhindi, Congress Grass and Wild Jasood.* For biological control of mealybugs and leafhoppers, release 2 to 3 days old caterpillars of predatory green moth (Chrysopa) twice at an interval of 15 days at the rate of 10,000 per hectare.* Use 5% solution of neem seeds or non-chemical agent like Azadirachtin 1500, 3000 or 10,000 ppm at the rate of 5 litres, 2.5 litres and 750 ml per hectare respectively.* Use yellow sticky traps to survey and control mealybugs and white flies.* For control of red sucking pests and red mites, collect and destroy half-opened or fully opened larvae by dipping them in kerosene water or shake the plant and walk briskly in a circular motion holding a rope at both ends to make the larvae fall.* For control of sucking pests in natural farming, spray 200 liters of Nimastra (without dilution) per acre. Non-chemical insecticides like Brahmastra, Dashparni extract should be sprayed in 200 liters of water in the amount of 6 to 8 liters per acre.* For biological control of sucking pests, at the beginning of the crop, when the atmosphere is moist, spray microbial controllers like Verticillium laciniae or Beauveria bassiae 50 grams in 10 liters of water.* For control of white fly infestation, as soon as the infestation is visible, spray 50 ml of Azadiractin 1500 ppm in 10 liters of water.* Destroy the damage caused by the T mosquito by breaking it and take care that there is no shade inside the field. On detection of pest, spray 50 ml Azadirachtin 1500 ppm or 40 gm Beauveria bassiana powder in 10 litres of water.* If the infestation of local pests is high in the cotton crop, use chemical pesticides recommended by the agricultural university related to your area as per requirement and recommendation.* While using pesticides, follow the recommended dosage and disease/pest/crop as per the label given on the pesticide under integrated pest management.read more :- Disillusionment with cotton: Production drops in Punjab, a setback to diversification
Punjab farmers disillusioned with cotton farming: Big drop in production, setback to crop diversification effortsMalwa region is known for cotton production, but now the farmers here are turning to paddy and wheat crops. Uncertainty over Minimum Support Price (MSP) and the outbreak of pink bollworm and white fly are considered to be the main reasons for farmers leaving cotton farming.Punjab farmers are getting disillusioned with cotton farming. As a result of this, a decline of 63.48 percent has been recorded in cotton production in the state this year. The government's crop diversification efforts have suffered a setback due to a major decrease in cotton production within a year.Punjab farmers disillusioned with cotton farming: Big drop in production, setback to crop diversification effortsPunjab farmers are getting disillusioned with cotton farming. As a result of this, a decline of 63.48 percent has been recorded in cotton production in the state this year. The government's crop diversification efforts have suffered a setback due to a major decline in cotton production within a year.Uncertainty over Minimum Support Price (MSP) and the outbreak of pink bollworm and white fly are believed to be the main reasons for farmers abandoning cotton cultivation. The latest report of the Cotton Association of India has revealed a decrease in cotton production.Malwa region is known for cotton production, but now the farmers here are turning to paddy and wheat crops. The groundwater level of the state is already falling. 118 blocks have gone into the red zone and this report has now increased the concern of the government even more. According to the report, cotton production has come down from 6.09 lakh bales in 2023-24 to 2.52 lakh bales in 2024-25. Similarly, the area has also come down from 2.14 lakh to 1 lakh hectare.Situation slightly better in Haryana and RajasthanCotton production in Haryana and Rajasthan has also fallen as compared to last year, but still the situation is slightly better there. In 2024-25, Haryana cultivated cotton in 5.78 lakh hectares and produced 11.96 lakh bales, while Rajasthan cultivated it in 6.27 lakh hectares and produced 17.79 lakh bales.Decline in purchase of cotton at MSP alsoA decline has been recorded in the purchase of cotton at MSP in Punjab. According to a report of Cotton Corporation of India in March, only 2 thousand bales were purchased at MSP in Punjab in the year 2024-25, whereas in the year 2019-20 this figure was 3.56 lakh bales. Similarly, in 2020-21, MSP purchase of 5.36 lakh bales was done. The market price of cotton was above MSP during 2021-22 and 2022-23, so there was no purchase at MSP during these two years. In the year 2023-24, only 38 thousand bales were purchased at MSP.read more :- INR drop 03 Paise, Closes at 86.29 per Dollar
The Indian rupee on monday lower 03 paise to close at 86.29 per dollar, while it opened at 86.26 in the morning.At close, the Sensex was up 442.61 points or 0.54 percent at 82,200.34, and the Nifty was up 122.30 points or 0.49 percent at 25,090.70. About 1883 shares advanced, 2101 shares declined, and 168 shares unchanged.read more :- Natural coloured cotton: Challenges of shortage of funds and low yield
Lack of funds and low yields impact revival of naturally coloured cottonIndia's naturally coloured cotton, which was once commercially successful, is struggling to regain its popularity despite growing demand for sustainable textiles. Despite high pricing and environmental benefits, low yields are deterring farmers from adopting it. Government support, improved seed systems and market linkages are critical to realising its export potential and transforming India's textile sustainability paradigm.India's naturally coloured cotton, which was commercially flourishing in the 1940s, is struggling to make a comeback despite growing global demand for sustainable textiles and decades of government research efforts.This special crop is currently grown on only 200 acres in Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, fetching a price of Rs 240 per kg, 50 per cent higher than regular cotton at Rs 160 per kg. However, farmers are hesitant to expand cultivation due to significantly low yields."The productivity of light brown cotton is very low, at 1.5-2 quintals per acre, while the productivity of normal cotton is 6-7 quintals per acre. This discourages farmers from expanding the acreage of this crop," Ashok Kumar, principal scientist at ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cotton Technology (CIRCOT), told PTI.The annual production from these limited acres is a mere 330 quintals, underlining the challenge faced by this special crop, which can potentially transform India's textile sustainability paradigm.ICAR-CIRCOT is currently focusing on light brown cotton.Coloured cotton has ancient roots in Indian agriculture, with cultivation dating back to 2500 BC. Before Independence, red, khaki and brown varieties of Cocanada 1 and 2 were grown commercially in Rayalaseema in Andhra Pradesh, exported to Japan. Traditional varieties were also cultivated in Assam and the Kumta region of Karnataka.However, the emphasis on high-yielding white cotton varieties during the Green Revolution marginalised coloured cotton. The inherent limitations of this crop – low boll, low weight, low fibre, short fibre length and colour variations – made it economically unviable for large-scale cultivation.Indian agricultural institutions have developed improved varieties, including DDCC-1, DDB-12, DMB-225 and DGC-78 developed by the University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad. The Central Institute for Cotton Research, Nagpur developed Vaidehi-95, which is considered the most prominent among the 4-5 varieties available.Between 2015-19, ICAR-CIRCOT processed 17 quintals of cotton in demonstration batches, producing 9,000 metres of cloth, over 2,000 jackets and 3,000 handkerchiefs, proving it commercially viable.Its environmental benefits are significant. Traditional cotton dyeing requires about 150 litres of water per metre of fabric, while naturally coloured cotton eliminates this requirement, which can reduce toxic waste disposal costs by up to 50 per cent."Naturally coloured cotton has immense export potential. More government support is needed to increase production and value addition," said Kumar.Despite high pricing and environmental benefits, expansion faces hurdles such as lack of seed systems, susceptibility to pests and the need for high pesticides commonly used in cotton cultivation."Nobody is able to develop varieties due to low production and lack of market. Even textile mills are not willing to buy cotton in small quantities," said Kumar.The global market is seeing potential with growing demand for eco-conscious brands, especially in Europe, the US and Japan. Australia and China are investing heavily in research using conventional breeding and genetic engineering.read more :- Gujarat: Textile industry fears threat from cotton MSP hike
Gujarat : Textile industry flags risks from cotton MSP hikeAhmedabad: The central govt recently increased the minimum support price (MSP) for kapas (raw cotton), raising rates across all categories — medium staple from rs 7,460 to rs 7,560 per quintal, medium long staple from rs 7,710 to rs 7,860, long staple from rs 8,010 to rs 8,110, and extra long staple from Rs 8,310 to Rs 9,310. While aimed at supporting farmers, the hike has sparked concern among Gujarat's textile industry, which fears that higher raw material costs will erode India's competitiveness in the global market.Industry leaders argue that enhancing cotton productivity, rather than simply raising MSP, offers a more sustainable path for increasing farmers' incomes without straining manufacturers. "India holds 37% of global cotton acreage but contributes only 23% to production," said Jayesh Patel, senior vice-president of the Spinners' Association of Gujarat. "Focusing on yield improvement is key if India wants to lead globally."Manufacturers are also seeking the removal of import duties on cotton. "Indian cotton is now the costliest globally, which directly affects our competitiveness," said Bharat Chhajer, former chairman of PDEXCIL. "At a time when global brands are considering India as an alternative to Bangladesh, expensive cotton makes us less viable."According to cotton trader Arun Dalal, the revised MSP structure incentivises farmers to supply better-quality cotton through price linkages based on moisture content. "Sowing activity picked up this season, and higher arrivals could help farmers secure better returns," he said. However, Dalal warned that sustained high cotton prices may put further pressure on spinning units and yarn manufacturers already grappling with weak demand and shrinking margins.Industry experts are urging the govt to balance farm support with safeguards for the textile sector. Removing import duties, boosting productivity, and easing logistics costs remain key demands.read more :- Rupee open Declines 11 Paise to 86.26 per Dollar
Rupee opens 11 paise down at 86.26 as dollar index trades high againThe rupee opened 11 paise down on July 21 as the dollar index traded high. The currency opened at 86.26 against the dollar after ending the previous session at 86.15.read more :- State Wise CCI Cotton Sale Details 2024-25 .
State-wise CCI Cotton Sales Details – 2024-25 SeasonThe Cotton Corporation of India (CCI) has raised per candy price by ₹700 this week. Following the price revision, CCI sold approximately 3,27,900 bales during the week, bringing the total cotton bales sales for the 2024-25 season to approximately 70,17,100 bales. This represents around 70.17% of the total cotton procured so far this season.A state-wise breakdown of sales indicates strong activity from Maharashtra, Telangana, and Gujarat, which together account for over 83.69% of the total sales to date.This data underscores CCI’s proactive efforts in stabilizing the cotton market and ensuring steady supply across key cotton-producing states.read more :- Relief from rain in Punjab, threat of caterpillar remains
Rain Brings Respite for Punjab Cotton Growers, But Pink Bollworm Remains a ConcernAfter weeks of dry weather, recent rainfall across southwest Punjab has brought much-needed relief to cotton farmers, raising hopes for a successful kharif season. The showers have not only rejuvenated cotton crops but also reduced the threat of whitefly infestations—one of the major pests affecting the region.However, agricultural experts are warning that the pink bollworm, another destructive pest, remains a looming threat. Particularly harmful to cotton crops in Punjab, the pink bollworm has caused significant economic losses in past seasons, even affecting Bt cotton—a genetically modified variety designed to resist pests.Teams from Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) are actively monitoring the situation in the fields. PAU principal entomologist Dr. Vijay Kumar confirmed that the rain has helped wash away adult whiteflies, easing immediate concerns. “Field surveys indicate that whitefly infestation is currently under control,” he said.Yet the increased humidity following the rains has created favorable conditions for pink bollworm development. Kumar noted early signs of infestation in some early-sown fields and urged farmers to stay vigilant. “The pink bollworm population is expected to rise in the next two to three weeks. Farmers must strictly follow pest management protocols,” he cautioned.According to state agriculture officials, cotton has been sown over approximately 1.2 lakh hectares this season—up from 96,000 hectares last year. Fazilka district alone accounts for nearly half of this area, reflecting renewed farmer interest in cotton cultivation.Fazilka’s chief agriculture officer, Rajinder Kumar, said the crop is in good health thanks to favorable weather and proper nutrient management. “We’re hopeful for a strong harvest, as no major pest outbreaks have been reported so far,” he said.read more:- Paramilt virus threat to cotton crop
Paramilt virus threat to cotton crop! Can cause heavy damage in 72 hours, experts warnKhargone (Madhya Pradesh): Khargone, the leading district in the country in terms of cotton production, is facing a new challenge these days. Due to intermittent rains and then sudden strong sunlight, the cotton crop is under threat of a problem called Paramilt virus. Agricultural scientists say that this disease with virus-like symptoms makes the cotton plants wilt very quickly and if not treated on time, it can destroy the entire crop within 72 hours.What is Paramilt virus?According to Dr. Rajeev Singh, a senior scientist posted at Krishi Vigyan Kendra Khargone, Paramilt virus is not actually a traditional virus, but it is a physiological disorder. This problem arises when the plants do not get enough water and nutrition, especially when the weather changes suddenly - like continuous rain followed by strong sunlight or long drought and then sudden rain.In this situation, many plants in the fields are seen wilting together, which can cause huge losses to the farmers.What are the symptoms?* The symptoms of paramilt are as follows:* Sudden wilting of leaves* Upper branches bending or drying up* The color of the plants turns yellow or brown* Some plants fall on the ground, as if they have been cutTimely treatment is very important: Golden opportunity of 72 hoursDr. Singh advises that if there are signs of these symptoms, it is mandatory to start treatment within 72 hours.For treatment:* Dissolve 10 mg cobalt chlorite + 20 grams urea in one liter of water and irrigate the roots of the plants.* This treatment reactivates the functioning of the roots of the plants, so that the plants can absorb water and nutrition.If cobalt chlorite is not available, use alternativesIf cobalt chlorite is not available in the market:* Mix 1 gram of carbendazim + 20 grams of urea in one liter of water and apply it on the rootsOR* Mix 2.5 grams of copper oxychloride + 20 grams of urea in one liter of water and spray it on the crop* Note: Treatment or spraying must be done within 72 hours to get effective results.read more:- MP invites Inditex to invest in textiles
Madhya Pradesh briefs Inditex on textile investment opportunitiesOn the second day of his Spain visit, Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav interacted with senior officials of the company at Inditex's headquarters in Galicia. He positioned Madhya Pradesh as a 'green, cost-competitive and accessible production hub' and invited Inditex to invest in the state's growing textile ecosystem.During the meeting, Dr Yadav emphasised Madhya Pradesh's strong credentials, including being one of India's top cotton producers with an annual production of around 18 lakh bales (3 lakh metric tonnes) and being home to over 15 textile clusters in cities such as Indore, Mandsaur, Burhanpur, Ujjain and Neemuch.He termed the upcoming PM Mitra Textile Park in Dhar district as a golden opportunity for Inditex to set up a sustainable and integrated apparel manufacturing unit. Developed under the flagship scheme of the Government of India, the park aims to attract global players through advanced infrastructure and green manufacturing capabilities.Dr Yadav also proposed collaboration in organic cotton production, especially in the Nimar and Malwa regions, which are known for their GOTS-certified farmer groups. According to a release issued by the Public Relations Department of Madhya Pradesh, he suggested developing a 'farmer-to-textile' value chain in line with Inditex's Sustainable Development Goals.Finally, he invited Inditex to act as the supply chain leader at PM MITRA Park and to partner in launching an organic cotton tracing platform and a vendor development program focused on ESG-certified MSMEs.Dr. Yadav said, "We are ready to support this partnership at every level.read more:- Andhra Pradesh: Experts worried over decline in cotton cultivation
| title | Created At | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Farmers moving towards maize: Decline in soybean and cotton cultivation | 24-07-2025 18:21:46 | view |
| INR Opens Stronger by 8 Paise at 86.33 | 24-07-2025 17:31:55 | view |
| Rupee Ends Flat at 86.41/USD | 23-07-2025 22:42:26 | view |
| Cotton textile exports cross $35.6 billion: Giriraj Singh | 23-07-2025 19:03:21 | view |
| Cotton Exporting Countries in 2025: India's Ranking | 23-07-2025 18:18:12 | view |
| Rupee open Falls 05 Paise to 86.41/USD | 23-07-2025 17:30:01 | view |
| Indian Rupee lower 11 Paisa, Ends at 86.36 per Dollar | 22-07-2025 22:44:46 | view |
| Land submerged in Sirsa, cotton crop destroyed | 22-07-2025 18:33:48 | view |
| Haryana : Central team inspects pink bollworm-hit cotton fields | 22-07-2025 17:48:19 | view |
| INR Opens Stronger by 04 Paise at 86.25 | 22-07-2025 17:26:14 | view |
| Sucker Pest Management in Cotton: Post Sowing Steps | 21-07-2025 23:52:51 | view |
| Disillusionment with cotton: Production drops in Punjab, a setback to diversification | 21-07-2025 23:28:40 | view |
| INR drop 03 Paise, Closes at 86.29 per Dollar | 21-07-2025 22:58:40 | view |
| Natural coloured cotton: Challenges of shortage of funds and low yield | 21-07-2025 18:33:40 | view |
| Gujarat: Textile industry fears threat from cotton MSP hike | 21-07-2025 18:02:56 | view |
| Rupee open Declines 11 Paise to 86.26 per Dollar | 21-07-2025 17:21:29 | view |
| State Wise CCI Cotton Sale Details 2024-25 . | 19-07-2025 22:27:40 | view |
| Relief from rain in Punjab, threat of caterpillar remains | 19-07-2025 20:55:33 | view |
| Paramilt virus threat on cotton crop | 19-07-2025 20:23:28 | view |
| MP invites Inditex to invest in textiles | 19-07-2025 19:54:30 | view |
