Khandesh's declining trends in cotton cultivation

The news from Khandesh indicates a potential decrease in cotton cultivation for the second consecutive year, with estimates suggesting a total cultivation area of 8 lakh 30 thousand hectares. Jalgaon district is expected to maintain its lead in cotton cultivation within the state, with approximately five and a half lakh hectares dedicated to cotton this year.

However, the overall trend in Khandesh reflects a decline in cotton cultivation, with Dhule and Nandurbar joining Jalgaon in this decrease. In Jalgaon district specifically, cotton cultivation has seen a reduction from 5 lakh 67 thousand hectares in 2022 to 5 lakh 54 thousand hectares in 2023, with a further decrease estimated this year.

Several factors contribute to this decline, including persistent losses attributed to issues such as pink bollworm infestation, labor shortages, and low market rates. In response, many dryland farmers are considering transitioning to alternative crops like soybean. Others, particularly those with access to artificial water bodies, are opting for crops such as papaya and banana. Some farmers are even planning to reduce the area dedicated to cultivation altogether due to these challenges.

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