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Punjab increases cotton target amid fear of pests, shortage of labourAs soon as the cotton sowing season starts in April, there is an atmosphere of uncertainty in the cotton sector of Punjab. Farmers and agricultural experts are concerned about the threat of pest-prone hybrid seeds, especially pink bollworm, and a severe shortage of farm workers. Despite these challenges, the state agriculture department has set a target of sowing cotton in 1.5 lakh hectares for the kharif season of 2025-26, which is about 30,000 hectares more than the previous season. It is noteworthy that in the year 2021, cotton was sown in 2.5 lakh hectare area in the state, after which there has been a continuous decline in the area.In the semi-arid southern districts of Punjab, cotton picking is mainly done by women. However, declining crop production and persistent losses have led to reduced work in the fields, causing a large number of agricultural workers to turn to other employment. Many workers now find working in non-agricultural activities or under rural employment schemes as a more secure and stable option.Baldev Singh, a farmer from Bajak village in Bathinda district, says that since 2021, crops are continuously failing due to pest attacks and adverse weather. In such a situation, the availability of agricultural workers called 'Siri' has decreased. Workers are preferring jobs that are less labor-intensive and have relatively stable income, increasing the difficulties for cotton growers.According to Gurjit Singh Romana, a farmer from Fazilka district, after five consecutive seasons of poor crops, farmers are not ready to take the risk again. He says BT-2 cotton seeds are sensitive to pink bollworm and till now farmers have not been assured that the new crop will be safe. Despite limited options in semi-arid areas, farmers are skeptical and reluctant to increase cotton acreage.State Agriculture Director Gurjit Singh Brar admitted that the labor shortage in the cotton belt has become acute in the last two-three years. He said that the department is taking steps like promoting mechanization and cleaning the fields before sowing. According to Brar, the root of the problem is the seeds being susceptible to pests. The new generation of pink bollworm-resistant seeds are still in the testing phase and their acceptance will take time. At present, the teams of the department are busy in motivating the farmers for cotton cultivation as per the advice of experts.read more:-  CCI weekly sales: 8.65 lakh bales sold, prices fluctuate

CCI's Weekly Sales Update: 8.65 Lakh Bales Sold as Prices Fluctuate Between ₹700–1100 Drop and ₹100 Hike During the week from 23rd February 2026 to 27th February 2026, CCI conducted regular online auctions for mills and traders of various centers. These auctions resulted in total weekly sales of approximately 8.64 Lakh bales for 2025-26 and 800 bales for 2024-25 season, reflecting strong demand from both segments.Cotton prices fell by ₹700– ₹1100 per candy on the 23rd Feb, leading to a significant rise in CCI’s sales volume. However, on 26th Feb, CCI increased its cotton sale price by ₹100 per candy.Day-wise Sales PerformanceFebruary 23, 2026:CCI began the week with strong sales, disposing of 86,000 bales from  2025–26 season.Mills session accounted for 32,300 bales and Traders purchased 53,700 balesFebruary 24, 2026:The total volumes reaching 2,17,100 bales, comprising 2,16,900 bales from 2025–26 and 200 bales from the previous season.Mills bought 87,900 bales, all from current season and Traders purchased 1,29,200 bales, including 200 bales from the older season.February 25, 2026:The highest sales volume of the week was recorded on Wednesday, with 2,77,800 bales sold. This included 2,77,200  bales from the 2025–26 crop and 600 bales from 2024–25.Mills bought 1,02,800 bales, including 100 bales from the older season and Traders emerged as aggressive buyers with 1,75,000 bales, including 500 bales from 2024–25.February 26, 2026:CCI sold 1,84,200 bales, all belonging to the current season.Mills purchased 73,200 bales and Traders accounted for 1,11,000 bales.February 27, 2026:The week concluded with sales of 1,00,500 bales, all from the current season.Mills bought 45,500 bales and Traders purchased 55,000 bales.Cumulative sales :Following the latest auctions, CCI’s total sales reached:12,58,100 bales for the 2025–26 season, and 98,83,000 bales for the 2024–25 season.read more :- PM Mitra Park in MP: New center of industry and employment

MP's PM Mitra Park leading in investment and employment generationIndore: PM Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel (PM MITRA) Park located in Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh has emerged as the leader among the seven textile mega parks of India. The park has shown high pace in investment commitments and land allocation, while many other states are still in the early implementation stage. It will encourage integrated manufacturing and technological upgradation in line with the 5F vision of the Central Government – from farm to fiber to factory to fashion and overseas market.In the recently concluded second phase, 320 acres of land was allotted to 13 companies, which will generate investment of about Rs 7,500 crore and over 16,000 jobs. About 1,130 acres of land had been allotted in the first phase, and the process of lease execution and plot possession is being expedited ahead of the third phase.Rajkumar Ramasamy, managing director of the Tamil Nadu-based textile company, said they are setting up an integrated unit to supply fiber to their plants. He described the favorable industrial environment of Madhya Pradesh and the success of the pilot project in Ujjain as attractive opportunities. Bhilosa Industries, a major anchor investor, plans to invest about Rs 4,500 crore in 200 acres of land and create 3,500 jobs.Industry experts are appreciating MP's rapid development, quick approval process and integrated planning of social infrastructure such as housing, health, education and recreation around the park. Madhya Pradesh has also provided competitive power tariffs, increasing the cost efficiency and long-term feasibility of the project.Sanjay Aggarwal, Managing Director, NASA's Fiber to Fashion, said that they are developing an integrated weaving, dyeing and apparel project in 30 acres inside the park. With EU tariff benefits and state incentives for European markets, the project will be cost effective and in line with global standards.MPIDC Managing Director Chandramouli Shukla said so far 38 companies have submitted investment proposals worth more than Rs 21,500 crore, which is expected to create about 55,000 jobs. Seven PM Mitra Parks of India have been approved in the budget of Rs 4,445 crore under the Union Textiles Ministry, with the aim of promoting large-scale investment and employment generation.read more :- 106 lakh quintals of cotton purchased on MSP in Maharashtra: Minister

Over 106 lakh quintals of cotton procured at MSP in Maharashtra: MinisterMumbai, At least 106.99 lakh quintals of cotton worth ₹8,497 crore had been procured from more than five lakh till February 16, Maharashtra Minister Jaykumar Rawal said on Friday, dismissing claims about technical glitches and malpractice in the process.Cotton procurement at the Minimum Support Price is conducted in the state through the Cotton Corporation of India , the nodal agency under the Union Textiles Ministry.Rawal, in a written reply in the state assembly, said allegations regarding technical glitches in the 'Kapas Kisan' mobile app for slot booking in Jalna district in January 2026 were false.He said 7.20 lakh farmers have successfully registered on the app, and procurement has been proceeding smoothly, without any complaints regarding technical issues to the CCI.The minister also denied allegations of malpractice or exploitation of farmers at procurement centres, stating that cotton meeting MSP quality standards is purchased strictly as per Government of India guidelines.Cotton that does not meet prescribed standards is ineligible for procurement, he said.For the 2025-26 cotton season, 168 procurement centres were opened across the state, and as of February 16, 2026, a total of 106.99 lakh quintals worth ₹8,497 crore had been procured from 5,02,598 farmers, the minister said.On production limits, Rawal said CCI's procurement is based on average yield data issued by the Agriculture Commissionerate, Pune, and farmers producing more than the average can submit certification from local authorities to enable procurement of additional quantity at MSP.He further dismissed claims that the removal of 11 per cent import duty between October 1 and December 31, 2025, led to losses to farmers, and said that CCI procured 74.86 lakh quintals of cotton worth ₹5,937.85 crore in Maharashtra during the period.read more :- Rupee fell 02 paise to close at 90.97 per dollar

The Indian rupee on Friday lower 02 paise to close at 90.97 per dollar, while it opened at 90.95 in the morning.At close, the Sensex was down 961.42 points or 1.17 percent at 81,287.19, and the Nifty was down 317.90 points or 1.25 percent at 25,178.65. About 1615 shares advanced, 2392 shares declined, and 173 shares unchanged.read more :- BTMA seeks clarity in implementing textile zero-tariff

BTMA seeks clarity to operationalise US-Bangladesh zero-tariff textile deal The Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA) has sought structured consultations and policy clarifications to operationalise Article 5.3 (Textiles) of the recently signed US-Bangladesh agreement, saying the deal could significantly expand imports of American cotton while boosting apparel exports to the United States.In a letter to Dr Gary Adams, president and CEO of the National Cotton Council of America, on 18 February, BTMA said the 9 February agreement provides conditional zero reciprocal tariff access for textile and apparel exports to the US, linked to imports of US raw cotton and man-made fibre.BTMA, which represents 1,873 mills with cumulative investments exceeding $23 billion, said US cotton accounted for around 10% of Bangladesh's total cotton imports in 2025. It sees scope to increase that share four to five times in the near term.At full capacity, Bangladesh's annual raw cotton requirement would reach about 16 million bales, compared to the current effective demand of roughly 8 million bales, the letter said.The association argued that the framework would create "mutual benefits", enhancing the competitiveness of Bangladeshi apparel in the US market, strengthening sourcing options for US retailers, and ensuring a "captive and expanding market" for American cotton producers, as eligibility for zero tariffs would require the use of 100% US cotton.However, BTMA sought clarification on several operational issues.These include eligibility rules for blended yarns containing synthetic fibres, and treatment of recycled cotton used in denim production, where traceability of recycled content is challenging. It requested consideration of a policy waiver for recycled components.On the proposed cap mechanism, BTMA suggested that export eligibility be set at five to six times the value of US cotton imports, noting that $1 worth of cotton typically translates into $5-6 in FOB apparel exports.It also sought clarity on whether the cap would be allocated nationally on a first-come basis or company-wise, linked to actual cotton imports.For certification, BTMA recommended using the US Cotton Trust Protocol, proposing a temporary transitional waiver while enhanced traceability systems are developed.The association said it is advising members to prioritise US cotton use and is preparing to establish a dedicated bonded warehouse facility for American cotton.A BTMA delegation is expected to visit the US soon to engage policymakers and industry stakeholders.read more :- CCI's record purchase of cotton in Kukshi

Last day of cotton procurement at CCI Kukshi Mandi: Record purchase of 1.92 lakh quintals fetched good prices; farmers' faces brightenedIt's the last day for the Cotton Corporation of India to purchase cotton at the support price at Kukshi Mandi. The market secretary had already informed farmers about this. This season, the CCI purchased a record 1.92 lakh quintals of cotton from the Kukshi center.Traders Received Prices Up to 1000 Rupees Higher Per QuintalCCI Procurement Officer Uday Patil stated that this time the corporation purchased cotton at rates ranging from 7650 Rupees to 8010 Rupees per quintal. Especially in the months of November and December, CCI prices were up to 1000 Rupees per quintal higher than the open market trading prices. This huge difference has directly and significantly benefited registered farmers.40,000 Cotton Bales ManufacturedThis bumper procurement at the market has also impacted local industries. Approximately 40,000 cotton bales have been prepared in contract de-lining factories from the purchased cotton.Due to CCI's activeness over the past three months, cotton producers have been increasingly interested in Kukshi Mandi, which has had a positive impact on the rural economy.Market Revenue Also IncreasedAccording to Kukshi Mandi Secretary H.S. Jamra, news of good prices led to a surge in cotton arrivals at the market. For the past 90 days, an average of over 200 vehicles have been arriving daily.This record increase in arrivals has also resulted in a significant increase in government revenue from market fees. As tomorrow is the last day of procurement, remaining farmers have been urged to arrive on time with their produce.read more :- Tanzania's new initiative for cotton farmers

Tanzania deploys modern sprayers to transform cotton farming in the countryIn a major push to modernise cotton farming, the Government of Tanzania, through the Tanzania Cotton Board, has purchased and deployed 16 modern self-propelled boom sprayers across key cotton-producing districts as part of its 2024/2025 financial year agricultural strategy.Water management solutionsThe high-tech sprayers have been distributed to five of the eight strategic cotton-producing districts — Meatu, Maswa, Kishapu, Igunga, and Bariadi — where they are expected to significantly improve pest management, cut production costs, and save time for farmers with large farms.Speaking about the project, Ndinda Anthony, the Board’s Agricultural Officer in Bariadi District, said the machines are targeted at farmers operating on larger acreages who adopt recommended cotton farming practices.“The Government has purchased and distributed these machines to strategic cotton-producing districts, targeting farmers with large farms. These machines serve farmers who follow proper cotton farming practices, including planting in rows, since the machine operates by moving through the field while efficiently spraying pesticides.”Anthony stressed that while the machinery is powerful, its benefits depend on farmers adhering to good agricultural practices to boost productivity and ensure correct chemical application.Farmer training programsThe initiative marks a clear shift from traditional pest control methods that have long challenged cotton farmers, who typically relied on manual knapsack sprayers that are labour-intensive, slow, and physically demanding.During a field visit to Kasoli Village in Bariadi District, farmers welcomed the new technology, praising its impact on their daily work. Marco Kayanhale, a farmer and resident of Mwamlapa Village, said the machines have alleviated the strain of spraying duties.“In previous years, we used knapsack sprayers. On this farm, I used to spend four days spraying and would get very exhausted. Now the Government has brought us a spraying machine — we have seen that it has made the work much easier. I will reduce labour costs and the amount of time spent in the field,” he said.Kayanhale noted that the new sprayers not only save time but also reduce fatigue that farmers endure while manually operating backpack equipment.Similarly, Marco Kubagwa, a farmer from Nyanguge Village, said the machines have revolutionised spraying on larger plots. “These machines make spraying much easier for farmers with large farms. In the past, we used knapsack sprayers that caused fatigue and body pains, but now large farms can be sprayed in a short time.”Echoing these views, Chongela Selemani, an Agricultural Officer under the Building a Better Tomorrow (BBT) programme in Mwamlapa Village, highlighted the efficiency gains. “These machines have greatly simplified the work. Previously, farmers used to spend two to three days to complete spraying one acre of land.”Farm management softwareSelemani added that despite the clear advantages of the modern sprayers, some farmers still need guidance on proper agronomic techniques, especially planting in rows. Extension officers continue to use demonstration plots to educate farmers so they can fully benefit from the technology.The purchase and distribution of these sprayers form part of broader government efforts to strengthen cotton production, increase farmer productivity, and promote modern, technology-driven agriculture nationwide — a move that aligns with national agricultural transformation agendas.read more :- The rupee fell 04 paise to open at 90.95/USD.

The rupee fell 04 paise to open at 90.95 against the dollar.The Indian rupee opened at 90.91 against the dollar on Friday after closing at 90.87 on Thursday.READ MORE :-Textile exporters demand extension of RoSCTL for 5 years

Textile exporters seek 5-Year RoSCTL extension for global competitivenessNew Delhi: The Home Textile Exporters’ Welfare Association (HEWA) has called for a five-year extension of the RoSCTL (Rebate of State and Central Taxes and Levies) Scheme, following the Ministry of Textiles’ formal acknowledgement that the representation has been taken on record for policy-level examination.The representation, submitted through the Prime Minister’s Office, emphasized that RoSCTL functions as a WTO-compliant tax neutralisation mechanism aimed at refunding embedded and non-creditable taxes to ensure Indian textile exporters remain globally competitive.Anant Srivastava, President, HEWA, said, in a statement, "We are extremely thankful to the Government of India for negotiating multiple trade agreements that create substantial opportunities for Indian textile exporters. To capitalise on these developments, exporters require stability and predictability in domestic policy. RoSCTL plays a vital role in ensuring competitiveness during this expansion phase.”Notably, in its official communication dated 25 February 2026, the Ministry clarified that continuation or extension of RoSCTL is a policy matter. The Ministry noted the observations submitted by HEWA and stated that the suggestion has been placed on record for examination at the appropriate level.HEWA highlighted that the timing of policy stability is crucial as India advances negotiations under the India–EU and India–UK Free Trade Agreements, alongside existing trade arrangements with Australia and the UAE. The Association stated that continuity in tax neutralisation mechanisms will enable exporters to effectively leverage expanded market access.The textile and garment sector continues to face global headwinds, including high US tariffs, rising sea freight rates, post-COVID cost escalation, and geopolitical disruptions impacting supply chains. Vikas Singh Chauhan, Director, HEWA, said: “India is well positioned to benefit from global supply chain realignments. However, this is not the appropriate time to alter the refund mechanism of embedded taxes under RoSCTL. MSME exporters need policy continuity to sustain employment, strengthen capacity, and plan long-term investments.”HEWA expressed confidence that a balanced, forward-looking decision will be taken in the larger national interest, supporting MSME exporters, employment generation, and India’s global textile competitiveness.read more :- TEXWIN Premium Cotton Yarn Launch at VIATT 2026

Texwin Spinning introduces premium cotton yarn range at VIATT 2026TEXWIN Spinning Pte Ltd, a leader in manufacturing premium quality cotton yarn, is participating in the Vietnam International Trade Fair for Apparel, Textiles and Textile Technology (VIATT) 2026 to be held from 26-28 February at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center in Ho Chi Minh City. The company is exhibiting at Hall A, Stall No. A14.At the exhibition, TEXWIN is showcasing its wide range of spinning cotton yarns, including combed compact yarns (NE 16 to 40s), carded compact yarns (NE 16 to 40s), and high performance components such as comber, flat and licrin for knitting and weaving applications. The company manufactures its products using high-grade raw cotton in a fully automated facility, ensuring superior quality, strength, uniformity and consistency in the textile processes.“VIATT provides an excellent platform to connect with international buyers and industry stakeholders. We look forward to introducing our premium cotton yarn portfolio and strengthening our presence in the ASEAN and global markets,” Bhagya Chikani of Texwin Spinning told Fibre2Fashion.Positioned as ASEAN's most comprehensive textile trade platform, VIATT covers the entire textile value chain, bringing together global stakeholders from apparel fabrics and fashion to home textiles, technical textiles and advanced manufacturing technologies. With an emphasis on innovation, digitalization and sustainability through initiatives such as 'Econogy', the fair serves as a strategic trade hub for the textile and apparel industry of the region.Established in 2021, Texwin Spinning Pvt Ltd is a Gujarat based manufacturer of premium quality cotton yarn. Headquartered in Rajkot, the company serves both domestic and export markets and is guided by "Quality is our Motto". Through a strong commitment to quality standards, customer satisfaction and continuous growth, Texwin Spinning continues to strengthen its brand presence in the competitive textile industry.read more :- The rupee closed 04 paise lower against the dollar at 90.91.