The cotton farmers in Telangana are facing a challenging season as unexpected yield declines and Congress government’s apathy have left them disoriented and distressed. According to the agriculture department’s initial estimates for the 2024-25 season, cotton production is projected to decrease by 4%, or 3 lakh bales, compared to last year’s yield.
In 2023, cotton production reached over 51 lakh bales, but this year it’s estimated at 48 lakh bales. Similarly, cultivation area has dropped by 2%, with cotton now grown on 43.76 lakh acres compared to last season’s 45 lakh acres.
Unpredictable weather patterns this year have severely impacted cotton production. Initially, farmers struggled with inadequate rainfall, only to face heavy rains later in the season. This weather volatility has caused cotton yields to plummet, with many farmers reporting only 3-4 quintals per acre, well below the usual 8-10 quintals.
Cotton farmers have faced a relentless onslaught of challenges this season. Beyond nature’s wrath, farmers feel neglected by the Congress government, particularly regarding cotton procurement. While the market support price for cotton is set at Rs. 7,521 per quintal, private traders are buying at only Rs. 5,500-6,500 per quintal, taking advantage of the situation.
Moreover, the Cotton Corporation of India (CCI) has purchased only 11,000 tonnes of cotton so far, far short of the 25 lakh tonne target. The delay in establishing purchasing centers has led to significant frustration among farmers, who struggle to sell their reduced yields at fair prices.
To cut further losses, many farmers are removing the cotton crop after the first harvest, rather than waiting for a second round. Reports suggest that over half of the cotton farmers across the state have chosen this drastic measure, fearing additional losses if the crop remains in the field.
It isn’t only cotton farmers who are feeling the strain this season. Paddy producers are experiencing similar difficulties. The agriculture department estimates rice production to be down over 6% in this rainy season compared to last year. Production fell from 98 lakh tonnes in 2023-24 to an estimated 92 lakh tonnes for the current season.