Cotton sowing for 2017-18 begins in parts of India

Farmers have begun sowing cotton since mid-April in well-irrigated regions, whereas growers in the non-irrigated regions are expected to start sowing only after the onset of the monsoon, which is timely this year, according to the Indian metrological department.

Last year, cotton acreage had dropped, especially in the northern region, owing to increased instances of white fly attack and pink bollworm infestation. But this time, farmers are prepared to tackle any pest attacks.

So, both timely arrival of monsoon and farmers being prepared to ward-off pest attacks, clubbed with prevailing high prices would result in higher sowing of cotton this year.

One indication of higher cotton sowing is the sales of cotton seeds, which are estimated to touch 52 million packs of 450 grams each in 2017, compared to 46.1 million packs in 2016, according to National Seeds Association of India. (RKS)

Fibre2Fashion News Desk – India