Heavy Rainfall Hits Gujarat Cotton Crop, Production Expected to Fall Up to 15%
By ashish wagh 2024-09-09 20:31:36
Gujarat Cotton Output Likely to Drop 10–15% Due to Heavy Rains, Crop Damage Worries Farmers
Continuous heavy rainfall in Gujarat has raised serious concerns among cotton farmers, with estimates suggesting a 10% to 15% decline in cotton production this year. According to the Cotton Association of India (CAI) and agricultural experts, both reduced sowing and widespread crop damage due to excessive rain are responsible for the expected decline.
Data from the Gujarat Agriculture Department shows that cotton cultivation has fallen by 12%, dropping to 23.62 lakh hectares from 26.79 lakh hectares last year. CAI estimates indicate that while Gujarat produced around 92 lakh bales in 2023–24, output is expected to decline further this season due to adverse weather conditions.
Farmers report that heavy rains during June and July caused the most significant damage. Waterlogging in fields has led to crop deterioration, even though reservoir levels remain high. In several regions, yield losses are estimated between 15% and 25%.
Despite lower arrivals, cotton prices in Gujarat have increased by nearly ₹200–₹2,000 in recent weeks. The price of cotton has risen from ₹57,500 to around ₹59,500 per candy (356 kg). However, traders note that overall arrivals remain low, with daily inflow in the state around 1,500–1,700 bales, compared to 5,000–6,000 bales nationwide.
CAI officials stated that cotton sowing peaked at around 10 lakh hectares in June, but heavy rainfall after mid-August worsened crop conditions in key growing areas. July–August sowing has been less affected as crops were still at an early stage.
Nationally, cotton acreage has also declined, falling to 111 lakh hectares from 123 lakh hectares last year across major producing states such as Punjab, Haryana, Gujarat, and Maharashtra.
Experts warn that if heavy rains continue, crop damage and yield losses may increase further, putting additional pressure on both farmers and the cotton supply chain.
