Farmers in Gujarat are off to a fast start in cotton cultivation for 2026 kharif season, with nearly 100,000 hectares already sown. By June 8,cotton covered 93,499 hectares,a leap from 34,011 hectares same time last year . Industry sources say actual area under cultivation is even higher . Gujarat is among first major cotton states to report such gains as South-West monsoon begins touching the region.
Across India, trend looks promising. Cotton acreage expected to rise in key growing areas. Central India may see 15 percent increase,while southern states could jump 10 to 20 percent. Nationally,cotton acreage could top 13 million hectares this kharif season.
Several factors fuel this expansion. Forecasts show less rain this season, and cotton's low water needs make it appealing for farmers. Plus, higher Minimum Support Price (MSP) and better procurement support push growers toward cotton.
As monsoon moves forward,Gujarat's cotton momentum mirrors wider trends in India. Farmers adapt to shifting climate and market forces. Early sowing figures hint at strong start,with farmers ready to take advantage of good conditions…
