According to a latest press release (July 20^th) from India’s Meteorological Department, so far, India’s rainfall during this monsoon season (June-September) is 22% below long period average.

Northwest and Central India, which are important cotton growing regions have registered 39% and 26% deficient rainfalls this monsoon season so far compared to long period average.

Government of India is alarmed about the lack of rainfall in 6 states that grow cotton which include Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana and Karnataka.

According to reports, in Gujarat, the number one cotton producing Indian state, only 35% of land has been sown till date and if monsoon fails in August, crop production conditions will be severe.

Indian agriculture depends heavily on monsoon and cotton is planted as a Kharif crop (June/July sowing) in northern states such as Gujarat, Maharashtra, Punjab and Haryana.

Media reports quote Sharad Pawar, Union Agriculture Minister saying that India will take a look at unrestricted export of cotton, wheat and other crops in August if monsoon fails.

Dr Seshadri Ramkumar