Farmers Demand Demonstration of Nanded-44 BT Cotton Seeds
By yash chouhan 2026-05-06 13:43:50
Demand for Organizing Demonstrations of the ‘Nanded-44’ BT Cotton Seed Variety
In Jalgaon district, an urgent need is being felt for demonstrations of advanced cotton varieties to ensure better cotton production. Farmers have demanded that demonstrations of the ‘Nanded-44’ BT cotton variety—developed by the Parbhani Agricultural University—be organized once again this year, so that the maximum number of farmers can benefit from it.
During the 2022–23 season, successful demonstrations of this variety were conducted across an area of approximately 200 acres within the district. Under this initiative, seeds were distributed to various farmer groups, and cultivation was carried out using both dryland farming techniques and artificial irrigation methods.
‘Nanded-44’ was originally a non-BT cotton variety that remained extremely popular in the state prior to 2001. Due to its high productivity and reliability, it effectively prevented numerous varieties introduced by private companies from establishing a foothold in the market. However, following 2001, its influence waned due to the widespread adoption of BT cotton and the influx of new varieties introduced by private firms. Subsequently, a BT version of this very variety was developed, thereby restoring its relevance among farmers.
Over the past three years, concerted efforts have been undertaken by Mahabeej and the Parbhani Agricultural University to promote and disseminate this variety. As part of these efforts, cultivation was encouraged by distributing free seeds to selected farmer groups. In Jalgaon district alone, this variety was cultivated across an area of approximately 200 acres.
Farmers have now demanded that, this year as well, seeds be made available to farmer groups and individual farmers in regions such as Chalisgaon, Jamner, Parola, Amalner, and Chopda, in order to facilitate the further expansion of this variety.
Furthermore, it is essential to ensure the active participation of agricultural assistants and local agricultural officials, so that farmers can receive technical guidance through these demonstration programs, leading to an increase in both overall production and productivity.
