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Drought conditions in 5 states; 6.11 lakh hectares of crop area affected; focus on low-water-consuming crops for Rabi seasonNew Delhi: The agricultural sector in several states has been impacted by a deficit monsoon and adverse weather conditions. According to Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, drought conditions have been declared in Karnataka, Maharashtra, parts of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Rajasthan. Meanwhile, preliminary reports indicate that approximately 6.11 lakh hectares of crop area across Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Gujarat have been affected by heavy rains, floods, or drought. A detailed scientific assessment of the damage is currently underway.By the end of the monsoon season, rainfall across the country was approximately 12.3% below normal. Consequently, the total sown area for Kharif crops declined by about 1%. The acreage for paddy decreased by 16.32 lakh hectares, while reductions were also recorded in the areas under maize, soybean, and cotton. Conversely, there was an increase in the cultivation area for crops such as urad (black gram), tur (pigeon pea), bajra (pearl millet), jowar (sorghum), sesame, and sunflower.For the Rabi season, the focus will be on promoting short-duration crops that require less water and are suited to local soil and weather conditions. The Central Government will assist states in identifying appropriate seeds and crop varieties. A central team is scheduled to visit Karnataka on October 3 to assess the drought situation, while Maharashtra has also requested a central assessment team.The government has set a total foodgrain production target of 373.93 million tonnes for 2026-27. Production stood at 376.56 million tonnes in 2025-26. The foodgrain production target for the upcoming Rabi season has been fixed at 177.72 million tonnes.Fertilizer requirement for the Rabi season is estimated at approximately 380 lakh metric tonnes. Currently, a fertilizer stock of over 163 lakh metric tonnes is available in the country. To promote balanced fertilizer use, the government has announced a ‘Khet Bachao Abhiyan’ (Save the Farm Campaign) to be conducted from October 22 to November 30. A pilot project demonstrated that balanced fertilizer use led to a 27% reduction in consumption and savings of over ₹1,400 crore.read more :- Indian Cotton Market Under Pressure

Pressure on Indian Cotton Market Due to Falling Global Prices; Arrivals Expected to RiseCotton Market: The Indian cotton market is feeling the impact of declining global cotton prices, rising arrivals of the new crop in the domestic market, and weak demand. In auctions conducted by the Cotton Corporation of India (CCI), prices for the 2025-26 season's cotton have dropped by approximately ₹1,200 per candy over the past two days.According to trade sources, domestic cotton prices have fallen from recent highs of around ₹70,000 per candy to the ₹64,500–₹65,500 range. In this market context, one candy is equivalent to 356 kilograms. Cottonseed prices have also declined, exerting downward pressure on raw cotton prices.Weakness has also been observed in the global market. Cotton futures for December delivery on the New York Intercontinental Exchange (ICE) were trading at around 80.13 cents per pound, down from a high of approximately 93 cents per pound reached in late August.**Sluggish Buying; New Crop Arrivals Expected to Increase**According to Ramanuj Das Boob, a sourcing agent based in Raichur, cottonseed prices have dropped by ₹300–₹400 per quintal, settling at around ₹4,600–₹4,700 per quintal. He noted that buying activity is currently slow. Demand for cotton bales from spinning mills remains limited, with many mills holding stocks sufficient for about 1 to 1.5 months.Daily arrivals of the new crop are currently estimated at around 45,000–50,000 bales. Anand Popat of CotYarn Trade Link expects arrivals of the new crop to increase further in October. This could keep domestic cotton prices under pressure for some time. However, the limited availability of the old crop with spinning mills could provide some support to the market.According to Anand Popat, the Indian cotton market is now entering a supply-driven phase. Future price trends may depend on factors such as the arrival of the new crop, mill buying, and government policy regarding duty-free cotton imports.Meanwhile, Atul S. Ganatra, CMD of the Radhalakshmi Group, has projected—based on interactions with farmers in cotton-growing states and surveys of standing crops—that cotton production in 2026-27 could be around 10 percent lower than the previous year. According to Ganatra, rainfall was deficient between June and September this year; this could affect water availability for farmers during subsequent pickings and impact overall production.read more :- The rupee opened 3 paise stronger against the dollar at 95.95.

On September 30, the Indian rupee opened with gains against the US dollar.The rupee had closed at 95.98 on Tuesday, whereas today it opened at 95.95 per dollar, marking a marginal gain.At 9:25 AM, the Sensex was trading at 72,713.60, up 184.53 points or 0.25%, after opening at 72,441.15. The Nifty 50 was at 22,734.05, up 17.85 points or 0.08%, after opening at 22,665.Read More :- Weavers Seek Duty Relief on Polyester Inputs

Weavers Distressed by Rising Yarn Prices; Demand Six-Month Duty ReliefNew Delhi: Amidst rising raw material costs and sluggish demand, India's weaving and textile industry has urged the government to waive the Basic Customs Duty (BCD) for six months on key raw materials used in the polyester industry. Industry representatives state that escalating costs are pressuring downstream manufacturers and undermining the competitiveness of the textile value chain.Ashish Gujarati, former president of the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry, took to X (formerly Twitter) to urge the Ministry of Finance to remove the BCD for six months on Monoethylene Glycol (MEG), Purified Terephthalic Acid (PTA), Partially Oriented Yarn (POY), Fully Drawn Yarn (FDY), and Drawn Textured Yarn (DTY).Commenting on this demand, industry stakeholder Alpesh Kapopara noted that temporary duty relief on these materials could help reduce production costs and boost the competitiveness of the textile value chain. Rakesh M. Barvalia also expressed concern over high yarn prices, while Darshan voiced apprehensions that persistent cost pressures could impact employment.Meanwhile, price hikes have been recorded in the domestic polyester market. On September 26, the price of PTA rose by ₹1.10 to ₹106.50 per kilogram, and the price of polyester melt increased by ₹0.95 to reach ₹120.05 per kilogram. The price of MEG remained stable at ₹83.70 per kilogram. On the same date, the price of polyester staple fiber increased by ₹2 per kilogram; it had previously seen a hike of ₹3 per kilogram earlier in September. According to R.K. Vij, General Secretary of the Polyester Textile Apparel Industry Association (PTAIA), downstream manufacturers are cautious about making purchases due to the rising costs of PTA and MEG. Some producers are buying material only to meet immediate requirements.Vij also attributed the temporary shortage of PTA in late August and early September to a decline in imports following the withdrawal of the customs duty exemption in mid-July. He further highlighted difficulties in sourcing paraxylene at competitive prices and rising freight costs, both of which are exerting pressure on production and downstream exports.read more :- Rupee higher 07 paise against US dollar to close at ₹95.98

The Indian rupee higher by 07 paise against the US dollar on Tuesday, closing at ₹95.98 per dollar.The domestic currency opened at ₹96.05 against the US dollar and remained volatile throughout the trading session. It eventually settled at ₹95.98, up 07 paise from the previous close.At close, the Sensex was down 242.65 points or 0.33 percent at 72,529.07, and the Nifty was down 64.05 points or 0.28 percent at 22,716.20. About 1871 shares advanced, 2321 shares declined, and 164 shares unchanged.read more :- Pink Bollworm Hits Amravati Cotton

Pink Bollworm Infestation in Pre-Monsoon Sown Cotton Raises Farmers' ConcernsAmravati, Maharashtra: Farmers in the Amravati region are concerned following the detection of pink bollworms in cotton crops sown before the monsoon. Pink bollworm larvae have been found inside cotton bolls in some fields in Valni Khurd and Valni Budruk. Farmers fear that the infestation could spread to other fields in the coming days.Naresh Suigot, a farmer from Pathrot, had sown cotton in Valni Budruk during the last week of May, utilizing irrigation facilities. According to the farmer, the crop was in good condition until now, with over 70 bolls per plant, raising hopes for a good yield.However, during a crop inspection, holes were observed in some cotton bolls. Upon opening the bolls, pink bollworm larvae were found inside. This discovery has heightened anxiety among farmers in the area.The cotton crop is already grappling with water scarcity due to a lack of rainfall in the region. Consequently, if the pink bollworm infestation escalates, it could adversely affect cotton yields.How does the pink bollworm damage the cotton crop?The pink bollworm enters the cotton boll and damages the seeds and fibers. In the early stages, it is difficult to detect the infestation from the outside. Later, holes may become visible on the infected bolls.According to agricultural experts, early sowing of cotton can increase the risk of pink bollworm infestation. However, the exact cause of the outbreak in this specific instance will only be determined after an investigation.Farmers have been advised to monitor their fields regularly. If holes in the cotton bolls or signs of the pest are observed, they should seek timely advice from the Agriculture Department or agricultural experts. Additionally, they are urged to adhere to government guidelines regarding cotton sowing and seed procurement.read more :- Virudhunagar Cotton Farmers Get Subsidies

Subsidies for Cotton Farmers in Virudhunagar under the 'Mission for Cotton Productivity'Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu: Cotton farmers in Virudhunagar district will receive subsidies for various activities under the ‘Mission for Cotton Productivity’ to encourage the adoption of modern technology and boost production and productivity. The scheme includes provisions for demonstration plots, drone-based spraying of crop protection chemicals, and technical training for farmers.District Collector Sharanya Ari stated that the mission aims to expand the area under cotton cultivation, improve crop quality and productivity, and connect farmers with modern agricultural techniques. Emphasis will also be placed on increasing farmers' income by the 2026-27 financial year.Under the scheme, farmers will receive a subsidy of ₹14,000 for High-Density Planting System (HDPS) demonstration plots. Additionally, assistance of ₹18,500 is provided for demonstration plots utilizing close-spacing planting methods. Farmers will receive a subsidy of ₹9,500 for demonstration plots dedicated to Extra-Long Staple (ELS) cotton cultivation.A subsidy of ₹7,500 will be provided for Integrated Crop Management (ICM) demonstration plots aimed at enhancing cotton production and productivity.Furthermore, farmers opting for drone-based spraying of crop protection chemicals will receive a subsidy covering 50 percent of the associated costs. Farmers will also receive training on the use of modern technologies in cotton cultivation.A total area of 1,600 hectares has been earmarked for various demonstration plots, while 800 hectares have been designated for drone-based spraying of crop protection chemicals under the scheme.Interested farmers can register via the ‘Uzhavan’ app or by contacting the nearest Assistant Director (Agriculture) office.read more :- Rupee Opens 7 Paise Lower at 96.05 Against Dollar

The rupee had closed at 95.98 on Monday, whereas today it opened at 96.05 per dollar, a decline of 7 paise.The BSE Sensex was trading at 72,559.35, down 212.37 points or 0.29%, while the NSE Nifty was trading at 22,715.30, down 64.95 points or 0.29%.Read More :- Weather Hits Jalgaon Cotton Crop

Weather Takes a Toll on Jalgaon Cotton Crop; Season Likely to End Before DiwaliJalgaon, Maharashtra: Cotton farmers have faced mounting difficulties this year due to fluctuating weather conditions and erratic rainfall since the start of the Kharif season. Heavy rains in June and July hampered cotton growth in some areas, while the sowing of monsoon cotton was also disrupted through late July. Subsequently, a lack of adequate rainfall during the month of Shravan caused crops in many regions to suffer from water scarcity.According to farmers, the summer cotton crop was affected by diseases such as rot and black rot. Farmers had to incur additional expenses on pesticides and other agricultural inputs to save the crop. Many had sown summer cotton in May using drip irrigation, relying on well water; however, a subsequent drop in well water levels stunted crop growth.Due to a low number of bolls, the yield for summer cotton is estimated at approximately 3 to 4 quintals per acre. Reports indicate that the monsoon cotton crop has also been affected in several areas. A lack of rainfall and the absence of retreating monsoon showers have impacted soil moisture and well water levels.**Expenditure of ₹40,000 to ₹45,000 per Acre**Farmers state that the cost of cotton cultivation is ranging from ₹40,000 to ₹45,000 per acre. This includes expenses for fertilizers, seeds, labor, weeding, pesticides, harvesting, and other agricultural operations. Costs have further increased due to the use of additional chemicals to combat diseases and protect the crop.**Concerns Regarding the Rabi Season**Farmers anticipate that the cotton season in some areas may conclude earlier than usual—specifically, before Diwali. However, this situation may vary depending on the specific region and the stage of the crop's development. Farmers are also concerned about the availability of sufficient soil moisture and water for the Rabi season due to a lack of rainfall and irrigation water. The situation will become clearer in the coming days based on rainfall patterns, well water levels, and actual crop yields.read more :- Unava Cotton Arrivals Begin

Cotton Arrivals Begin at Unava APMC; Prices Reach ₹2,525 per MaundMehsana, Gujarat: Arrivals of new cotton have commenced at the Unava APMC, located in the Unjha taluka of Mehsana district, Gujarat. Approximately 100 maunds of cotton have been recorded so far in early trading. Prices in the market ranged from ₹1,500 to ₹2,525 per maund, with ₹2,525 marking the highest rate recorded in this initial phase. Currently, cotton is primarily arriving from the Mehsana and Patan districts.According to APMC Secretary Rajubhai Patel, facilities such as accurate weighing, cash payments, drinking water, and parking are being provided for the convenience of farmers. The cotton market season typically runs from September to April, with peak arrivals usually expected between October and December.Market insiders anticipate higher cotton arrivals this year compared to the last. However, as the season has just begun and only 100 maunds have arrived, it is premature to estimate the total volume for the entire season. Future arrivals will be influenced by weather conditions, production levels, and farmers' decisions regarding sales.There is also speculation about a potential rise in cotton prices. Factors such as scanty rainfall, reduced cotton sowing, and overseas demand could impact the market. However, actual prices will ultimately be determined by market arrivals, cotton quality, production, and both domestic and international demand.Cotton is primarily used in the manufacture of textiles and yarn. Additionally, cotton seeds are processed to produce items such as cottonseed oil. As arrivals increase in the coming days, farmers and traders will closely monitor cotton prices and market conditions at the Unava APMC.read more :- 

India Must Become a Cotton Exporter, Not an Importer: Gadkari ji Emphasizes Technology and QualityAddressing ginners, traders, millers, brokers, and exporters from across the country at the All India Cotton Summit 2026, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari ji stated that cotton is a vital cash crop for the Indian economy and its farmers. He emphasized that increasing productivity per acre and reducing production costs should be the top priorities for the cotton sector.Gadkari urged stakeholders in the cotton industry to provide farmers with better seeds, modern technology, and guidance on scientific farming practices. He noted that superior seeds, modern ginning and pressing processes, and high-quality produce would boost India's cotton export potential, benefiting farmers, ginners, traders, and the entire textile industry.He pointed out that cotton productivity in India remains low and stressed the need to increase per-acre output through higher crop density. He called for increased adoption of technologies such as AI, satellites, and drones in the future, noting that AI and satellite technology can provide crucial information regarding weather, pest/disease outbreaks, and fertilizer requirements. He also advocated for organizing farmer workshops in cotton-growing regions to raise awareness about these new technologies.Emphasizing the importance of quality, Gadkari advised against mixing cotton of varying grades; instead, he suggested preparing separate bales based on quality standards. He remarked that honesty, transparency, reliability, and goodwill are the greatest assets of the 21st century, warning that compromising quality for short-term gains could harm the brand value and export prospects of Indian cotton.He also highlighted the gap between domestic production—approximately 290 lakh tonnes—and consumption—around 340 lakh tonnes—noting a deficit of about 50 lakh tonnes. Referring to the projected import of approximately 6 million tonnes of cotton in 2025-26, he stated that India must move towards reducing imports and increasing exports.Gadkari also emphasized the use of drone technology in agriculture. Citing the example of drone-based spraying of nano-urea and nano-fertilizers, he noted that this enables more efficient use of inputs. He also highlighted the need to gradually transition agricultural equipment to electric and solar power.He identified the reduction of logistics costs as crucial for export competitiveness. He noted that utilizing the Nagpur-Haldia route and river transport for shipping cotton from Vidarbha to Bangladesh could reduce transit time from approximately 27 days to 15 days and lower costs by about 10%.Citing Israel's high cotton productivity per acre as an example, Gadkari stressed the need to boost productivity in India. He emphasized increasing farmers' income and production capacity through the Government of India's Cotton Mission, as well as the use of superior seeds and technology. Additionally, he praised Maharashtra's textile schemes while underscoring the importance of timely disbursement of the associated incentives.read more :- Indian Rupee Falls 10 Paise to Close at 95.98 Against US Dollar.