Cotton Farmers in Vidarbha Urge Against Import Extension
As cotton yields plummet due to drought, farmers in Vidarbha express concerns over potential extensions of duty-free imports.
Farmers fear that extending duty-free imports will lower domestic cotton prices.
Yavatmal district is experiencing severe drought, significantly reducing cotton yields.
International cotton production is expected to be high, potentially flooding Indian markets.
In Nagpur, cotton farmers in the Vidarbha region are anxiously awaiting the government's decision regarding the extension of duty-free cotton imports, which are currently set to expire on October 31. With the ongoing drought severely impacting crop yields, farmers are concerned that extending this policy will further depress prices for their already struggling produce. Cotton is anticipated to enter the market by mid-October, and farmers hope for better pricing amid falling yields.
The textile industry is advocating for the continuation of duty-free imports, arguing that it would provide cheaper raw materials. However, farmers and agricultural experts warn that such a move would exacerbate their financial woes. The domestic cotton market is already under pressure due to a significant decrease in yield, particularly in non-irrigated areas of Vidarbha, where farmers rely heavily on rainfall. Yavatmal, known as the cotton bowl of Maharashtra, has over 450,000 hectares dedicated to cotton cultivation, but drought conditions have led to stunted growth and a drastic reduction in bolls per plant.
Reports indicate that cotton plants in many fields are producing only four to five bolls, compared to the normal range of 40 to 50. Shantanu Thakre, a farmer from Arni Tehsil, shared his dismay over the crop's condition, stating that the plants in his field have barely reached 10 to 12 bolls each. He expressed doubt about the possibility of multiple pickings this season due to the adverse weather conditions.
While Indian cotton production is suffering, other countries are projected to have bumper harvests. If duty-free imports continue, there is a risk that cheaper foreign cotton will flood the Indian market, further driving down local prices. An official from the International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC) noted that India's lint production is estimated at 431 kg per hectare, slightly lower than last year, while countries like Brazil and Uzbekistan are expecting yields of 2,200 kg and 1,700 kg per hectare, respectively.
Vijay Jawandhia, a prominent activist, highlighted the current global cotton prices, which are fluctuating around 89 cents per pound, having recently approached a dollar. The bearish trend in global prices could pose additional challenges for Indian farmers if the government opts to extend the duty-free import policy, leading to a potential oversupply in the domestic market.
