Cotlook Index: 03-09-2026
98.25 (-2.50)
Press Release-CAI & NCDEX sign letter of Engagement to Strengthen Cotton Futures Market in India
The Cotton Association of India (CAI) and the National Commodity & Derivatives Exchange Limited (NCDEX) today signed a Letter of Engagement at the NCDEX office in Mumbai, marking an important step towards developing and strengthening the cotton futures market in India.
The Letter was signed by Mr. Vikas Goel, Managing Director & CEO, NCDEX, and Mr. Vinay N. Kotak, President, CAI, in the presence of Mr. Lalit Kumar Gupta, CMD, Cotton Corporation of India, members of the NCDEX Board, and members of the CAI Board and Committees.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Vinay N. Kotak said, “For CAI, this association with NCDEX represents a return to our historic roots while firmly looking towards the future. CAI brings rich legacy and deep domain knowledge in cotton futures, while NCDEX brings technology, institutional strength and commodity derivatives expertise. Together, we are confident of creating a liquid, transparent and user-friendly cotton futures market serving the entire cotton and textile value chain.” Recalling CAI’s historic role, Mr. Kotak noted that CAI had permanent recognition under the Forward Contracts (Regulation) Act, 1952, and was the first exchange permitted to resume cotton futures trading when futures were re-introduced in 1998, following the Government’s ban in 1966. CAI subsequently generated substantial volumes in cotton futures before exiting the segment with the emergence of multi-commodity exchanges.He emphasised that futures perform three vital functions—price discovery, hedging and risk management, and providing liquidity. “India is one of the world’s largest producers and consumers of cotton, yet Indian market participants often look towards international markets for hedging. We should aspire to become Atmanirbhar in futures,” he said. Mr. Kotak stressed that the success of the cotton futures contract would depend on active participation across the entire value chain. “The exchange provides the platform, but liquidity is a collective responsibility of market participants. We must take the first step and actively participate in the market,” he added. Concluding, Mr. Kotak said, “Let today’s signing mark the beginning of a new chapter in India’s cotton futures market, with the Government, the exchange and market participants working together to make India truly Atmanirbhar in cotton futures. One of our key objectives is to support the Government’s vision of Atmanirbhar futures price discovery and hedging facilities for cotton, enabling better price discovery and higher income for farmers, while providing textile product exporters with an effective risk mitigation tool to hedge their cotton raw material requirements and contributing to the Government’s goal of achieving US$100 billion in textile exports by 2030”. Joining him, Mr. Vikas Goel, MD and CEO, NCDEX, said, “Cotton is central to India's agricultural economy, yet our derivatives market has never fully reflected the country's scale of production. This partnership with CAI is a deliberate step to change that. CAI's deep membership base and on-ground expertise will be invaluable as we work together on market development and open up new possibilities for India's cotton Value chain participants. Not only it will help NCDEX strengthen our Cotton Complex offering and build trade practices that align with global standards, it will also give the entire value chain, from growers to exporters, a transparent, reliable way to manage price risk, and build a price benchmark that truly reflects India's standing as one of the world's largest cotton producers.”
CAI expresses its appreciation to NCDEX and all stakeholders for their support and cooperation and looks forward to a long and productive partnership in strengthening India’s cotton futures market.
India GeM, Textiles Committee sign MoU to support circular textiles
Friday 4th Sep 2026, (Source: www.fibre2fashion.com/news)
Insights: GeM and the Textiles Committee have signed an MoU to route recycled and upcycled textile products into Indian public procurement. The tie-up targets goods made from pre- and post-consumer waste, scrap and second-hand clothes. Dedicated GeM categories, certification and handholding may open demand for MSMEs, artisans and recyclers.
Government e Marketplace (GeM), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and the Textiles Committee (TC), under the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote recycled and upcycled textile products through public procurement. The partnership covers products made from pre- and post-consumer textile waste, scrap and second-hand clothes, and is aimed at creating new market opportunities for enterprises working in the circular textile economy. It will build a ‘Waste-to-Value-to-Market’ ecosystem so that textile waste and used clothing can be converted into quality value-added products and made available to government buyers through GeM. The MoU was signed during the 62nd Foundation Day celebrations of the Textiles Committee in Mumbai, the Ministry of Commerce & Industry said. Under the agreement, the Textiles Committee will identify, verify, certify and recognise eligible producers of recycled and upcycled textile products, besides supporting stakeholder consultations, capacity building, market research and the development of technical specifications.
GeM will create dedicated categories for recycled and upcycled textile products, support seller onboarding and online market linkages, and promote these products among government buyers. Training and handholding support will be provided to help last-mile upcyclers and recyclers participate effectively in public procurement. The partnership will follow a hub-and-spoke approach, with the Textiles Committee and its affiliate offices handling last-mile outreach, mobilisation and capacity building of upcyclers and recyclers. They will also support the preparation of suitable product specifications and catalogues for government procurement. The initiative focuses on women, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), local enterprises, artisans, recyclers and other circular-economy enterprises. It is aligned with the national priorities of Vocal for Local, Make in India and self-reliant India. The MoU was signed by Ajit B Chavan, additional chief executive officer, GeM, and Kartikay Dhanda, secretary, Textiles Committee, in the presence of senior officials and industry stakeholders. Mihir Kumar, chief executive officer, Government e Marketplace said, "By connecting certification, standardisation and market access, the GeM -TC partnership seeks to create reliable demand for products made from textile waste. Government procurement, with its scale and reach, can accelerate adoption of such products across offices, institutions, gifting and other public-use requirements." The initiative is intended to support resource conservation, sustainable livelihoods and responsible consumption and production, while strengthening India’s transition towards a circular and resource-efficient textile economy.
ICE cotton continues to fall on weak exports, selling pressure
Friday 4th Sep 2026, (Source: www.fibre2fashion.com/news)
Insights: ICE cotton futures fell for a third straight day as weak US export demand and profit booking discouraged buying. December 2026 settled at 86.45 cents, down 2.48 cents, and has lost 6.69 cents per pound in three sessions. USDA weekly sales were only 29,339 bales, while heavy volume and renewed liquidation showed demand must improve for bulls to regain control.
ICE cotton futures continued to fall on third consecutive day yesterday. Weak export demand of US cotton and selling pressure due to profit booking discouraged buying of US cotton. The weak export number was particularly damaging because demand had already been questioned during the recent rally. The most active December 2026 contract settled at 86.45 cents down 2.48 cent. The contract has lost 6.69 cents per pound in the last three trading session. Monday’s 176-pt gain has been more than erased, leaving December still 493 pts lower till now during the week. US cotton futures across the board lost 57 to 302 points on Thursday. Only May 2027 managed to close above 90 cents at 90.21 cents. Volume was 92,253 contracts, showing strong conviction for the 2nd consecutive session, compared with 107,487 contracts cleared Wednesday. After Tuesday’s open interest reached the 3rd-highest level in cotton history, liquidation followed as expected. OI began today at 381,373 contracts and declined 2,357 contracts, marking only the 3rd decrease in the last 24 sessions since July 30. The sell-off cannot be blamed entirely on demand, but once willing buyers—likely including a large number of speculative longs—were already in the market, there were fewer buyers left to support prices. With little cash buying and limited long hedging, once the first domino fell, the decline cascaded quickly. SDA’s Weekly Export Sales Report for the week ended August 27 showed net sales of only 29,339 bales, including 27,525 bales of Upland and 1,814 bales of Pima, all for the 2026-27 season. As the rally accelerated, speculative traders joined the move. Without fresh bullish news, the market eventually ran out of willing buyers. The latest export data provided the catalyst for profit-taking and liquidation. The bullish arguments have not completely disappeared. Texas crop deterioration remains a concern, while China State Reserve buying could become supportive if Chinese authorities begin replenishing the cotton stocks being sold through the recent auctions. However, meaningful reserve buying of US cotton has not yet materialised. China’s ZCE cotton also declined for the 3rd time this week and is approximately 2 per cent lower WTD. There is still no reliable confirmation of the reported September 24 Trump-Xi meeting, so the potential trade-deal demand boost remains only an expectation. Market analysts said the correction across the agricultural complex appears to be driven more by macro factors and profit-taking than by a fundamental change in the underlying crop situation.
Outside markets were mixed, with US crude oil closing higher as geopolitical developments continued to influence energy markets. Comments from Russian President Putin regarding peace negotiations provided some pressure relief, while the market continued to watch developments involving Russia and Ukraine.The key change in cotton is that the market has moved from a supply-and-weather-driven rally into a clear demand test. The 29,339-bale weekly sales figure, heavy volume and renewed liquidation show that demand must improve materially for bulls to regain control. This morning (Indian Standard Time), ICE cotton for December 2026 was traded at 86.98 cents per pound (up 0.53 cent), cash cotton at 79.61 cents (down 3.02 cent), the October 2026 at 86.98 cents (up 0.64 cent), the March 2027 contract at 89.24 cents (up 0.44 cent), the May 2027 contract at 90.60 cents (up 0.39 cent), and the July 2027 contract at 90.05 cents (up 0.31 cent). A few contracts remained at their previous closing levels, with no trading recorded so far today.
India's BTTF, Première Vision sign MoU to boost global textile ties
Friday 4th Sep 2026, (Source: www.fibre2fashion.com/news)
Insights: Bharat Tex Trade Federation (BTTF) and Première Vision SA signed a multi-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deepen India's integration with global fashion and textile markets. The partnership will promote export linkages, buyer engagement, sustainability, trend intelligence and heritage crafts, helping Indian firms move towards premium, design-led and higher-value sourcing opportunities.
The Bharat Tex Trade Federation (BTTF) and Première Vision SA, one of the world’s leading international platforms for creative fashion, textiles, and sourcing, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on September 2, 2026 at the Premiere Vision (Paris) exhibition to establish a multi-year institutional partnership aimed at strengthening India’s engagement with the global fashion and textile ecosystem. The MoU was signed by Dr. A. Sakthivel, core committee member, BTTF and chairman, Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC), and Florence Rousson, chief executive officer – fashion division, Première Vision SA. The signing ceremony took place in the august presence of Neelam Shami Rao, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, and Dr. M. Beena, Development Commissioner (Handlooms). The occasion was witnessed by prominent industry captains from India, leading designers, EPC officials, Indian Embassy officials, BTTF leadership amongst others. The MoU builds upon the Letter of Intent (LoI) signed on July 14, 2026 at Bharat Tex 2026, New Delhi, in the presence of the Hon’ble Union Minister of Textiles, translating the vision into sustained collaboration across trade, sourcing, design, sustainability and heritage. Connecting Indian textiles with the global fashion ecosystem
Première Vision has been an international benchmark for fashion industry for over five decades. This partnership provides a major avenue for Indian textile manufacturers, exporters, designers and artisans to connect with international buyers, fashion houses and premium sourcing networks. A core strategic objective is facilitating India’s movement beyond volume-driven exports towards high-value, design-led and premium segments. Première Vision’s trend intelligence platforms will support the Indian enterprises align with global market demands and build relationships with buyers seeking sustainable, high-quality sourcing solutions.Stronger market access amid India-EU trade momentum The partnership comes at an important juncture following the conclusion of negotiations for the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in January 2026. The agreement provided preferential market access on 96.8 per cent of tariff lines covering 99.5 per cent of India’s exports, with 90.7 per cent of exports by trade value expected to become duty-free upon coming into force. For the textile and apparel sector, the opportunity is particularly significant. The EU’s global textile and apparel imports stood at approximately $292.8 billion in 2025, while India’s textile and apparel exports to the EU are currently around $10.4 billion.
The India-EU FTA’s proposed zero-duty access across textile and clothing tariff lines is therefore expected to create significant opportunities for Indian exporters across garments, textiles, yarns and home textiles, while enhancing India’s competitiveness in the European market.
Speaking on the occasion, Neelam Shami Rao, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, stated: “Bharat Tex, envisioned under the 5F Vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has emerged as the world’s largest integrated textiles event, with a strong focus on trade, sustainability and investment. This partnership with Première Vision is a natural progression, creating new opportunities to showcase India’s luxury textiles and rich heritage to Europe and the world, while benefiting artisans, weavers, designers, women entrepreneurs and MSMEs across the country.”. Dr. A. Sakthivel, core committee member of BTTF, stated: “This partnership with Première Vision will connect Indian textiles more closely with global markets while showcasing our rich heritage and advancing sustainability, reinforcing India’s position as a competitive and responsible textile hub.”Florence Rousson, chief executive officer of Première Vision’s fashion division, added: “We are delighted to partner with BTTF to foster creativity, innovation and responsible sourcing, while creating new opportunities for Indian and French stakeholders across the textile value chain.”
Key areas of collaboration
Under the MoU, which will be overseen by a Joint Steering Committee, both organisations will collaborate on:
By bringing together India’s manufacturing capabilities, diverse textile ecosystem and rich craft traditions with Première Vision’s global fashion and sourcing network for premium and luxury segments, the partnership marks an important step towards enabling Indian enterprises to access higher-value international markets and strengthening India’s position as a sustainable, innovative and high-value sourcing destination for the global fashion industry.
India targets wider FTA use to boost exports across 780 districts
Thursday 3rd Sep 2026, (Source: www.fibre2fashion.com/news)
Insights: India has called for a nationwide FTA utilisation drive to turn trade agreements into export gains for MSMEs and first-time exporters. It will cover all 780 districts, targeting traders, startups and women entrepreneurs. Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal said nine FTAs span economies representing about $60 trillion in GDP and offer preferential access to nearly two-thirds of global trade.
India's Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal has called for a focused, inclusive nationwide drive to maximise the use of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), aiming to convert expanded market access into wider export opportunities for businesses across the country. Addressing the National Workshop on Leveraging FTAs an Outreach Programme in New Delhi today, Goyal said the initiative should rapidly reach every district, MSME, trader, entrepreneur, startup and woman entrepreneur across all 780 districts. The day-long workshop brought together senior officials from the central government, states and Union Territories, Export Promotion Councils and industry associations, with a focus on measurable outcomes for Indian exporters, particularly MSMEs and first-time exporters. India's nine FTAs span economies representing about $60 trillion of GDP and would provide preferential access to nearly two-thirds of global trade, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry said in a release citing Goyal. The ministry also cited him as saying that India's exports reached about $317 billion during April-July, up by $36-37 billion from the corresponding period last year. Goyal said FTAs that India expects to conclude over the next few months and couple of years, including with Canada, Mexico, Chile, Mercosur, Southern African Customs Union (SACU), Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Israel, together with efforts to review Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Korea and Japan or take other steps to deepen market access, would give India access to 75 per cent of global trade at rates lower than those of competitors. He said a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA), FTA or Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) is ultimately about securing a rate better than that available to India's competition, and that the absolute tariff number has to be viewed in relation to competitors' tariff treatment. He added that trading patterns of the United States and European Union differ, with different operating and labour costs, requiring India to assess the rates paid by competing countries such as Vietnam and Bangladesh in other markets. Citing textiles as an example, Goyal said India had struggled for years to compete with Bangladesh and Vietnam because Bangladesh benefited from least developed country (LDC) status and Vietnam from FTAs, allowing access to developed markets at zero or lower duties while India faced higher duties. He noted that the situation had changed, with India securing rates better than competing geographies in almost all developed markets, leaving industry performance dependent on scale, quality, diligence, customer trust and timely delivery on quality, schedules and packaging. On FTAs already operational and those due to come into force, Goyal announced that an ambitious target had been set for the current year adding that, Mauritius, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Australia and the United Kingdom were already operational, with the India-United Kingdom FTA live from July 15. The European Free Trade Association (EFTA), comprising four countries, would also become operational, while New Zealand would follow soon and the European Union's 27 nations thereafter, according to the ministry release.He observed that India should become an economy recognised and respected globally for its contributions and a trusted partner of the world and linked that objective to collective efforts towards making India a $30 trillion economy by 2047, with a very large share of international trade. He also highlighted first-quarter GDP growth of 7.8 per cent at constant prices and said GDP data are determined through an elaborate, ground-up and independent process run by the Ministry of Statistics. The proposed outreach will involve the government and different line ministries, with the Department of Commerce and the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) taking the lead. Goyal said critical ministries should gradually be involved through engagements, including textiles, pharmaceuticals, chemicals and electronics.
US Upland cotton sales plunge 71%, shipment rise 4.7%: USDA
Friday 4th Sep 2026, (Source: www.fibre2fashion.com/news)
Insights: US Upland cotton net sales for 2026-27 fell about 71 per cent week on week to 27,500 RB, with India and Vietnam the largest buyers at 10,800 RB each. Upland shipments rose about 4.7 per cent to 189,500 RB, led by Vietnam at 77,300 RB and India at 22,200 RB. Pima sales slipped about 14 per cent to 1,800 RB, while shipments fell about 47 per cent to 4,600 RB.
US cotton export sales weakened sharply during the week ended August 27, 2026, as net sales of both Upland and Pima cotton declined from the previous week. Upland shipments, however, increased, supported by strong deliveries to Vietnam and India, according to the latest weekly export sales data. Net sales of Upland cotton for the 2026-27 marketing year totalled 27,500 RB (running bales, each weighing 226.8 kg), down about 71 per cent from 95,700 RB in the previous week. India and Vietnam were the largest buyers with 10,800 RB each. Vietnam's purchases included 4,000 RB switched from South Korea and reductions of 300 RB. Bangladesh followed with 5,200 RB, including reductions of 100 RB, while Peru bought 2,000 RB. China accounted for 1,700 RB switched from Hong Kong. The overall sales figure was partly offset by reductions of 3,800 RB for South Korea and 1,700 RB for Hong Kong. Upland export shipments, in contrast, increased by about 4.7 per cent to 189,500 RB from 181,000 RB in the preceding week. Vietnam remained the largest destination, receiving 77,300 RB, followed by India with 22,200 RB, Pakistan with 17,800 RB, Mexico with 14,700 RB and Indonesia with 9,700 RB. Net sales of Pima cotton for 2026-27 stood at 1,800 RB, down about 14 per cent from 2,100 RB in the previous week. India remained the largest buyer with 1,100 RB, followed by Thailand with 500 RB, Pakistan with 200 RB and Japan with 100 RB. Pima export shipments fell sharply to 4,600 RB from 8,600 RB a week earlier, a decline of about 47 per cent. Vietnam was the leading destination with 1,500 RB, followed by India with 1,200 RB, Costa Rica with 900 RB, Turkiye with 400 RB and Pakistan with 300 RB. The latest figures showed a substantial cooling in new US Upland cotton sales following the stronger buying recorded earlier in August. Physical shipments remained comparatively resilient, however, with Upland exports rising week on week and Vietnam and India continuing to account for significant volumes. Pima trade was weaker, with both sales and shipments declining from the preceding week.
Telangana Cotton Sowing Exceeds Normal Area
Friday 4th Sep 2026, Yash Chouhan, (Source: www.smartinfoindia.com)
Cotton Sowing in Telangana Surpasses Normal Acreage; Soybean and Oilseed Acreage Also Higher Than Last Year Cotton sowing in Telangana during the Kharif 2026 season has exceeded the normal acreage. Meanwhile, the acreage for soybean and total oilseeds has also increased compared to the same period last year. According to data from the Telangana Agriculture Department as of September 2, 2026, significant shifts have been observed in the sowing status of major Kharif crops in the state.
Cotton Sowing Exceeds Normal Acreage
As of September 2, cotton sowing in Telangana has covered 4,822,219 acres (48.22 lakh acres). The state's normal cotton acreage is 4,741,541 acres (47.42 lakh acres). Consequently, cotton sowing has reached 101.70% of the normal acreage.
During the same period last year, cotton sowing covered 4,541,547 acres (45.42 lakh acres). This means the cotton acreage this year is 280,672 acres (approximately 2.81 lakh acres) higher than last year.
Soybean Acreage Also Increases
Soybean sowing covered 372,400 acres (3.72 lakh acres) by September 2. Although this is below the state's normal acreage of 416,656 acres (4.17 lakh acres), it represents 89.38% coverage of the normal acreage. During the same period last year, soybean sowing covered 360,385 acres (3.60 lakh acres). Thus, soybean acreage has increased by 12,015 acres (approximately 0.12 lakh acres) this year.
Increase in Total Oilseeds
Total oilseed sowing in the state has reached 391,694 acres (3.92 lakh acres). In comparison, the normal acreage is 447,585 acres (4.48 lakh acres). This means that 87.51% of the normal acreage has been covered so far.
During the same period last year, total oilseed sowing covered 368,630 acres (3.69 lakh acres). Thus, the oilseed acreage this year is higher by 23,064 acres (approximately 0.23 lakh acres).
Focus on Weather Conditions
Weather conditions in the coming days will be crucial for crop development. Current forecasts indicate that the weather in Telangana is likely to remain generally hot with relatively low rainfall. Meanwhile, rainfall is also expected to be deficient across Peninsular India in the coming week.
In this context, attention will be focused on two key trends to gauge the state's crop production and market outlook: cotton acreage exceeding normal levels, and the acreage for soybean and total oilseeds remaining higher than in the corresponding period last year. Future weather conditions could impact the productivity and market availability of these crops.
North India Seeks Cotton Revival
Friday 4th Sep 2026, Yash Chouhan, (Source: www.smartinfoindia.com)
Call to Revitalize Cotton Cultivation in North India at the Sirsa Dialogue
Bathinda: At the two-day 'Farm-to-Fiber Cotton Dialogue 2026' held in Sirsa, politicians, farmers, ginners, scientists, and stakeholders across the cotton value chain discussed a roadmap to increase the shrinking cotton acreage in Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan and to strengthen the cotton-based rural and textile economies. Organized by the South Asia Biotechnology Centre (SABC), the dialogue addressed the continuously declining cotton acreage, stagnant productivity, and the mounting challenges facing North India's cotton-based rural and textile sectors. Emphasis was placed on the need for superior genetics, next-generation cotton technologies, and improved production systems to halt the decline in cotton cultivation. BJP National Vice President Manpreet Singh Badal, who attended the event, recalled the rapid adoption of Bt cotton in North India and the transformation it brought to the region's agricultural economy. He stated, "With greater policy focus, attention on farmers, and improved access to modern technology, we can restore farmers' confidence in cotton and once again make North India a thriving hub of cotton production."
Bhagirath Choudhary, Founder Director of SABC, described the 2026-27 Kharif season as a "wake-up call" for the cotton economy. He called for adequate allocations under the 'North India Cotton Productivity Mission,' ensuring farmers have access to next-generation Pink Bollworm (PBW)-resistant and herbicide-tolerant Bt cotton technologies, as well as superior genetics suitable for HDPS (High-Density Planting System) and CSPS (Compact System Planting System).
Mahesh Sharda, former President of ICAL, highlighted the importance of selecting the right cotton varieties and hybrids to achieve better productivity and fiber recovery. He suggested forming village-level committees to evaluate the field performance of varieties under local conditions and assist farmers in selecting the best seeds. The dialogue was jointly organized by SABC, ICAL, NITMA, and the Haryana Cotton Ginners Association.
Dubai Offers Textile Business Opportunities to Surat
Friday 4th Sep 2026, Yash Chouhan, (Source: www.smartinfoindia.com)
Major Offer from Dubai for Surat's Textile Industry
Amidst a global economic slowdown and rising prices of crude oil and raw materials, Surat's textile industry has received a major business proposal from Dubai. A high-level delegation from the Dubai government visited Surat and held meetings with over 450 mill owners and industrialists. During these interactions, details were shared regarding the availability of land, infrastructure, and facilities for an easy business setup—including units, offices, and trading operations—in Dubai. The Dubai government has proposed making land and ready-made offices available for trading and non-polluting units at a location just 10 minutes away from the airport. Assurances were also given regarding the streamlined provision of necessary government approvals through a single-window system. Furthermore, the possibility of special rates or discounts for the Surat association, based on further negotiations, was indicated. According to Jitu Vakharia, President of the South Gujarat Textile Processors Association, there is no plan to relocate Surat's processing mills to Dubai. However, textile manufacturers and traders could establish direct access to international buyers by opening offices there. Overproduction poses a significant challenge for Surat's textile industry. The association notes that it is difficult to absorb approximately 15 to 20 percent of the total output within the domestic market. Consequently, a strategy is being considered to divert this surplus production to new foreign markets by utilizing Dubai as a trading hub. Dubai's tax and business systems have also been highlighted as attractive features for Indian entrepreneurs. However, the specific benefits related to duties and taxes will depend on relevant trade agreements, the products involved, and the business structure. The association is currently reviewing the booklet provided by the Dubai government, and a future course of action will be determined thereafter.
Heavy Rain Alert for 19 States
Saturday 3rd Sep 2026, Yash Chouhan, (Source: www.smartinfoindia.com)
Monsoon Shifts Again: Heavy Rain Alert for 19 States; Vidisha Expects Intense Rainfall Until September 6 The monsoon has become active across the country once again, with rainfall commencing in several states, including Madhya Pradesh. The Meteorological Department has forecast heavy rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds across 19 states: Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Delhi, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, West Bengal, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Tripura, Assam, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana. Vidisha district experienced intermittent light to moderate rainfall starting Thursday morning. According to meteorologist Satendra Singh Tomar, the district is likely to receive 10 to 15 mm of rain initially, followed by the likelihood of heavy rainfall on September 4, 5, and 6. The rainy spell is expected to continue for the next four to five days. As of September 3, Vidisha has recorded an average rainfall of 677.8 mm against a normal average of 1075.5 mm, indicating a deficit of approximately 37 percent. Lateri recorded the highest rainfall at 896.8 mm, while Gulabganj recorded the lowest at 417 mm. The water level of the Betwa River stands at 1352.30 feet, which is 21.34 feet below the danger mark. The Samrat Ashok Sagar Reservoir is filled to 76.64 percent of its capacity. Meanwhile, Maharashtra recorded 703.4 mm of rainfall between June 1 and August 31, compared to the normal 824.5 mm—a deficit of 14.7 percent. Fifteen districts in the state received less than 75 percent of their normal rainfall. The Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar division received only 48.2 percent of normal rainfall, while Amravati and Nagpur received 72.6 percent and 72.5 percent, respectively. Farmers in Madhya Pradesh are hopeful for relief from upcoming rains, whereas in the low-rainfall regions of Maharashtra, the risk of damage to Kharif crops could increase if there is insufficient rainfall.
Transforming India’s Cotton Productivity: Rasi Seeds’ Innovations and Vision
Sunday 30th Aug 2026, Dr M Ramasami, (Source: www.eng.ruralvoice.in)
Rasi Seeds Chairman Dr M Ramasami outlines how Bt hybrids transformed India’s cotton productivity but rising pink bollworm resistance has triggered a prolonged yield decline. He advocates next-generation Bt technology, High-Density Planting, closer spacing, mechanisation and precision agronomy, alongside stronger policy support to achieve the government’s 755 kg lint-per-hectare productivity target. Rasi Seeds is a fifty-year-old Indian Seed Company with world-class R&D, production, and sales & marketing capabilities. Rasi is renowned for excellence in cotton and field crops and through its quality product portfolio, it has established a strong presence across major agricultural regions of India. Rasi Seeds has been at the forefront of cotton research and innovation, developing high-yielding, pest-tolerant, climate-resilient hybrids with superior fiber quality since 1988. From pioneering non-Bt hybrids to advancing Bt technology, HDPS, and mechanization-oriented breeding, Rasi has enhanced cotton productivity, profitability, fiber quality, and sustainability, benefiting farmers and contributing significantly to India's cotton production and textile economy. Over the last three decades, Rasi Seeds has established one of the largest cotton hybrid footprints in India, with its hybrids occupying up to 25% of the cotton-growing area in several regions. Our cotton hybrids have been cultivated across 2 to 3 million hectares out of India's 11.4 million hectares involving more than 2 million farmers. Rasi hybrids have gained widespread farmer acceptance which positively impacts millions of cotton farmers.
1. Technology introduction (Bollgard and Hybrid) Under the leadership of Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, India approved Bt cotton for commercial cultivation in March 2002 through the GEAC, making it the country's first genetically modified crop. Rasi’s RCH2 became the first commercially successful Hybrid with Bt technology. In 2002–03, India had 76.67 lakh hectares under cotton cultivation, producing 136 lakh bales of lint with a productivity of 302 kg lint per hectare. At the time of Bt cotton commercialization, hybrids accounted for nearly 40% of the total cotton area. Bt technology was rapidly adopted because it significantly reduced pesticide use and production costs while minimizing yield losses caused by insect pests. With the induction Technology and hybrids farmers find it easy to cultivate cotton and Its widespread adoption also encouraged an expansion in cotton cultivation and increased the share of hybrid cotton acreage.
By 2013–14, the cotton area had expanded to 119.6 lakh hectares, with production reaching 398 lakh bales and productivity increasing to 566 kg lint per hectare. During this period, Bt hybrids occupied nearly 95% of the total cotton area. Between 2002–03 and 2013–14, cotton area increased by 56%, production by 193%, and productivity by 88%. In this remarkable growth, hybrids and Bt technology played the primary role in improving productivity, with Bt technology providing strong support by protecting yields from insect pest damage. 2. Why the production started plateauing and going down to the extent of 100 lakh bales The effectiveness of Bt technology began to decline, and its breakdown was officially recognized during 2015–16 following widespread infestations of pink bollworm (PBW) across major cotton-growing regions. Consequently, cotton productivity has remained largely stagnant over a few years and started declining during 7-8 years due to the absence of major technological breakthroughs.
During 2024–25, despite only a marginal decline of about six lakh hectares in cotton area, productivity dropped from 566 kg/ha to 440kg/ha, production dropped from 398 lakh bales to 290 lakh bales. This decline highlights the yield losses caused by pink bollworm (PBW), which has developed resistance to the existing Bt technology.
Furthermore, PBW infestation leads to several secondary problems, including increased boll rot in damaged bolls, deterioration in fibre quality, and difficulties during picking operations. These issues result in higher picking costs and lower market prices for the produce. Owing to these challenges, many farmers have shifted to alternative crops that offer greater ease of cultivation and no production risks.
3. What is the Rasi initiative to increase productivity?
Hybrid cotton and Bt technology have been the two most significant drivers of India's cotton production growth. To overcome the current productivity plateau, address emerging pest challenges and to increase the ease of cotton distribution cultivation, Rasi Seeds has launched two major initiatives: Next-generation Bt technology and RASI MAX project.
1. Next-Generation Bt Technology: Rasi has developed its own next-generation Bt technology to effectively address Bollgard II-resistant pink bollworm. This is home grown technology developed by an Indian company through the efforts of Indian scientists, specifically addressing the challenges faced by Indian cotton farmers. The technology is currently undergoing biosafety trials as part of the regulatory approval process. Once the technology gets commercialized, the difficulty faced by Indian farmers due to pink bollworm will be eliminated and it also protects the yield damage from pink bollworm. This helps to restore the farmer's confidence in cotton cultivation.
2. RASI MAX Project: it is a yield-maximization initiative designed to overcome the existing productivity plateau. The project promotes the High-Density Planting System and Closer Spacing (CS) concepts to maximize productivity per unit area. It also aims to establish the foundation for end-to-end mechanization in cotton production through HDPS-suitable hybrids with High ginning outturn (GOT), Precision agronomy practices, Plant Growth Regulator based canopy management and defoliation management for mechanical harvesting.
3. Mechanization: Rasi Seeds actively supports agri-tech start-ups developing affordable planters, harvesters, defoliation solutions, and precision farming technologies to accelerate mechanization and improve cotton productivity.
By combining next-generation Bt technology, HDPS, end-to-end mechanization, and high-GOT hybrids, these initiatives are designed to unlock India’s cotton productivity potential and help achieve yields that meet or exceed global average yields.
4. Mission on cotton productivity
The Government of India has launched the Mission for Cotton Productivity which is officially known as "Kapas Kranti" for the period 2026–27 to 2030–31 to revitalize the cotton sector and enhance national productivity with a budget of Rs 5960 crores.
The mission focuses on promoting HDPS, Closer Spacing (CS), Extra Long Staple (ELS) cotton, and Integrated Crop Management (ICM).The mission aims to increase cotton production to 498 lakh bales and improve productivity to 755 kg lint per hectare by bridging existing yield gaps through large-scale adoption of improved production technologies and scientific crop management practices.
5. What support is required for achieving the target set in the mission.
First of all we should understand why farmers are not enthusiastic to cultivate cotton. The ease of doing cotton cultivation has to be established by efficient control of Pink Bollworms. This will ensure reduced spending on spraying and increase yields to the extent 25%. This step will help to increase the gross income by 25% which will create interest among farmers to expand cotton cultivation. This will assure to increase production levels to 560 kgs (400 lakh bales)
Further to reach the goal of 755 kgs lint per hectare set by the Government we need to concentrate on the High Density Planting System , closer Spacing system. Mechanisation should be an integral part of planting. We need large support for the availability of large numbers of machines for planting and harvesting. According to the Mission it is not clear the intent of the Government.
We also request policy support to accelerate the adoption of HDPS, closer spacing cultivation, and mechanization through suitable input subsidies and incentives. Support for affordable planters, harvesters, pre-cleaners, and the availability of defoliation chemicals will be crucial for enabling mechanized cotton cultivation, particularly among small and marginal farmers.
(Writer is Chairman, Rasi Seeds Pvt. Ltd.)
