Cotlook Index: 20-10-2026
91.15 (+0.20)
SKAAT to Spotlight Advanced Automation Solutions at India ITME 2026
Wednesday, 21st Oct 2026, by Mohan Raj, (Source: www.apparelviews.com)
As textile mills look for ways to improve productivity, maintain quality and control costs, automation and modernization are becoming increasingly important. Coimbatore-based SKAAT Group is addressing these needs with its range of innovative retrofit solutions and digital technologies. The company is set to showcase its latest products and upgraded solutions at India ITME 2026.
In an exclusive interaction, Shruthi, Director of SKAAT Group, shared her views on the current textile industry scenario, the company’s latest innovations and its plans for the future.
Supporting Mills Improve Productivity
Assessing the current business environment, Shruthi said textile manufacturers were adopting a cautious approach to investments due to fluctuations in material prices and uneven market demand. Instead of expanding capacity, many mills are focusing on modernizing their existing machinery to improve productivity and quality.“The environment is cautious, but far from stagnant. Mills are becoming more selective about where they invest. Both in India and globally, we are seeing a shift from capacity addition towards modernizing existing installations. Our strength lies in automation and digital control, which help mills get more out of their existing machines,” she explained.
Shruthi, Director of SKAAT GroupSince 1999, SKAAT has been developing retrofit solutions that improve performance at critical stages of textile production. Its product portfolio includes digital slub systems for producing precise and repeatable slub yarns, injection and color slub attachments, and core-spun systems available in soft-core, dual-core and rigid-core configurations. These solutions help mills explore value-added and technical yarn applications.
The company’s latest linear bale plucker is designed to ensure consistent fiber opening and mixing, while reducing manual handling.
Improving Efficiency and Quality
Explaining how SKAAT’s solutions help manufacturers remain competitive, Shruthi highlighted the role of automation in improving consistency and reducing operational challenges.“Our digital slub systems enable ring frames to produce more value-added yarns. Digital controls ensure faster changeovers and consistent quality from one lot to another. Similarly, our linear bale plucker automates fiber opening and improves mixing, resulting in better efficiency and more consistent output,” she said.
Sustainability through Retrofitting
SKAAT also sees sustainability as an important advantage of its retrofit solutions. By upgrading existing machines instead of replacing them, mills can extend equipment life and avoid the environmental impact associated with manufacturing new machinery.
“Sustainability is built into our retrofit models. Our systems help ring frames produce value-added products without requiring new equipment. Precise digital control in our slub and core-spun systems also reduces rework and yarn rejection, ensuring better utilization of every kilogram of fiber. Our linear bale plucker improves mixing and helps reduce fiber loss,” Shruthi noted.
She added that these solutions help mills respond to the growing sustainability expectations of global buyers while maintaining commercial viability.
Showcasing Innovations at India ITME 2026
At India ITME 2026, SKAAT will display upgraded versions of its product portfolio, including digital slub attachments, core-spun systems, injection and color slub attachments, and the linear bale plucker. The company will also showcase its expertise in robotics through solutions such as robopacking and autopiecing.
Visitors can meet the SKAAT team at Hall 11, Stall C26, where its technical experts will explain the solutions and discuss how they can address individual mill requirements.
Expanding Access to Digital Technology
Looking ahead, SKAAT aims to make advanced digital control more accessible to a wider range of textile mills.
“Over the next five years, we aim to bring precision digital control not just to larger companies, but also to a wider base of mills. These technologies need to be accessible and affordable if mills are to remain competitive. Our focus will be on continued innovation, efficient service and stronger customer support,” Shruthi concluded.
ICE cotton extends gains as weak dollar, firm crude lend support
Wednesday, 21st Oct 2026, (Source: www.fibre2fashion.com)
Insights: ICE cotton December 2026 futures settled at 80.88 cents per pound, up 0.94 per cent, as a weaker US dollar and stronger crude oil supported export competitiveness and cotton's edge over synthetics.Gains were capped by expectations of an accelerated US harvest, with USDA reporting 41 per cent picked, ahead of the five-year average.Volume rose 14 per cent, but trade stayed subdued.
ICE cotton futures extended their gains for the second consecutive session on Tuesday, supported by a weaker US dollar and strength in crude oil prices amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. However, expectations of an accelerated US cotton harvest and subdued trading volumes limited the upside. The benchmark December contract remained within its recent narrow trading range despite closing above the midpoint.The ICE cotton December 2026 contract settled at 80.88 cents per pound, up 0.75 cent or 0.94 per cent from the previous close of 80.13 cents. The contract gained 88 points over two sessions, while other contracts closed 8–77 points higher. The December contract remained confined to its 11-session trading range of 79.23–82.25 cents, with a midpoint of 80.74 cents. Tuesday's settlement was 14 points above this level, indicating a modest improvement in buying sentiment. However, the contract continued to face resistance around 80.86–81.00 cents.Trading volume increased to 38,788 contracts from 34,047 contracts in the previous session, a rise of approximately 14 per cent. Nevertheless, overall trading activity remained relatively subdued. The latest open interest and certified stock figures were unavailable. Previously reported open interest had reached a record 398,469 contracts, while certified stocks stood at 15,129 bales.The US dollar weakened against major currencies as declines in crude oil prices during parts of the session and in longer-dated US Treasury yields weighed on the currency. Market participants also assessed escalating US-Iran tensions and uncertainty surrounding sustained investment flows into US artificial intelligence stocks. A weaker dollar made US cotton more affordable for overseas buyers, supporting export competitiveness.Crude oil prices experienced considerable intraday volatility following developments in the Middle East, with Brent crude reaching a fresh five-month high. Higher crude oil prices generally increase polyester production costs, potentially improving cotton's competitiveness against synthetic fibres.However, market analysts said that expectations of an accelerated US cotton harvest during the week had restricted the market's upward movement. Increased arrivals of newly harvested cotton were expected to maintain pressure on nearby prices.According to the USDA's crop progress report for the week ending October 18, the proportion of US cotton rated good to excellent improved marginally to 35 per cent from 34 per cent in the previous week. Cotton harvesting reached 41 per cent, ahead of the five-year average of 37 per cent, indicating relatively rapid crop movement into the supply chain.Market sentiment remained cautiously positive as the weaker dollar, crude oil strength and two consecutive sessions of gains supported cotton futures. However, harvesting progress, limited trading participation and persistent sideways movement continued to constrain the market.Traders are now monitoring whether the December contract can sustain a close above the 80.86–81.00-cent resistance zone, which could open the way towards 82.00 cents and the recent high of 82.25 cents. Immediate support is seen at 79.80–80.00 cents, followed by 79.23 cents and the 79.00–79.20-cent area. The recent major low of 77.05 cents remains a deeper support level.The near-term direction will depend on movements in the US dollar and crude oil, developments in the Middle East, the pace of the US harvest and traders' positioning ahead of the December contract's first notice day on November 23. Indian textile mills are also expected to monitor import costs and price competitiveness against Brazilian cotton before making fresh procurement decisions.This morning (Indian Standard Time), December 2026 cotton was traded at 80.79 cents per pound (down 0.09 cent). Cash cotton was traded at 7,863 cents (up 0.75 cent), while the March 2027 contract traded at 83.13 cents (down 0.05 cent). The May 2027 contract traded at 85.80 cents (down 0.06 cent), the July 2027 contract at 86.27 cents (down 0.05 cent), and the October 2027 contract at 80.09 cents (unchanged). A few contracts remained at their previous closing levels, with no trading recorded so far today.
Maharashtra Cotton Crop Hit by Drought, Yields May Fall Sharply
Sunday, 20th Oct 2026,, Yash Chouhan, (Source: www.smartinfoindia.com)
Cotton Crop Affected by Lack of Rain in Maharashtra; Significant Drop in Yield Expected
Reports indicate that the cotton crop in several cotton-growing regions of Maharashtra—specifically in Marathwada and Vidarbha—has been adversely affected by a lack of rainfall and high temperatures. Insufficient soil moisture has hindered the growth of cotton plants. In many areas, there are reports of cotton bolls bursting prematurely. Consequently, farmers fear a decline in production and significant financial losses.
Crop Growth Stunted by Lack of Rainfall
According to available information, some cotton-growing regions did not receive adequate rainfall for an extended period during August and September. This led to a depletion of soil moisture, which impaired the development of cotton bolls. Amidst high temperatures in October, there are reports that cotton harvesting has begun earlier than usual in some areas.
Farmers state that the lack of water has caused cotton plants in many fields to wither. This raises concerns that the upcoming harvest will result in lower yields.
Significant Decline in Yield Per Acre Expected
Narayan Atole, a farmer from Ambhora Jahagir village in the Mantha taluka of Jalna district (Marathwada), noted that in a typical year, his fields would produce eight to nine quintals of cotton per acre. However, due to the lack of rain this year, the yield is expected to be only two to three quintals per acre.
Meanwhile, farmers in other affected regions have reported a yield of one to one-and-a-half quintals of cotton per acre during the first round of harvesting. It should be noted, however, that the quantity obtained in the first round does not necessarily reflect the total yield for the entire season.
Difficulty in Recovering Cultivation Costs
The prospect of reduced cotton production has heightened the financial concerns of farmers. Having already invested in seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, spraying, and labor, farmers may find it difficult to even recover their cultivation costs, given the lower-than-expected yields. The affected farmers have demanded that the state government conduct a survey of the fields, carry out a proper assessment of crop losses, and provide financial assistance to eligible farmers at the earliest.
Kadi Cotton Auctions Open on Dussehra
Sunday, 20th Oct 2026,, Yash Chouhan, (Source: www.smartinfoindia.com)
Gujarat: Cotton Auction Begins at Kadi Cotton Market Yard on Dussehra; Over 800 Maunds Arrive on Day One
Kadi (Gujarat): On the occasion of Dussehra, the new cotton season’s trading and auctioning commenced at the Sardar Patel Cotton Market Yard in Kadi, Gujarat. On the very first day of the season, an arrival of over 800 maunds of cotton was recorded at the market yard. During the auction, prices ranged from ₹700 to ₹1,933 per maund, depending on the quality of the cotton.
Farmers Arrive with Cotton from Surrounding Regions
With the start of the new season, farmers from Kadi and surrounding areas—including Viramgam, Detroj, Patdi, Sanand, Surendranagar, Patan, and Becharaji—arrived at the market yard with their cotton produce. The commencement of the auction generated significant enthusiasm among both farmers and traders.
Prices varied based on the quality of the cotton. Higher-quality produce fetched better prices, fostering a positive atmosphere in the market.
APMC Officials Present at the Auction Launch
The inaugural event was attended by APMC Chairman Govind Patel, Vice-Chairman Himanshu Khamar, Secretary Kamlesh Trivedi, and several other directors. Local ginning mill operators and cotton traders also participated in the proceedings.
Cotton Arrivals Expected to Increase by Diwali
The start of cotton trading at the Kadi Market Yard is expected to boost business activity within local ginning and oil mill industries. It is anticipated that cotton arrivals will accelerate in the coming days, with operations at local mills expected to ramp up by Diwali.
Kadi is one of the major cotton trading hubs in Gujarat. In addition to cotton from within Gujarat, the market also receives supplies from Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh. During the peak season, it is reported that over 400 vehicles arrive at the yard daily. The start of the new season has brought enthusiasm among farmers, traders, and those associated with the ginning industry. However, cotton prices in the coming days will depend on market demand, quality, and the volume of arrivals.
Government to Stay Live on Mobile: Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan Launches New Portal for Farmers
Monday, 19th Oct 2026, (Source: www.pib.gov.in)
Advancing Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of Digital India and his commitment to farmers’ welfare, Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan today formally launched the upgraded Agri Welfare Portal. The portal aims to provide farmers across the country with direct, easy access to government schemes, financial assistance and reliable agricultural information on their mobile phones, eliminating procedural hurdles and the role of intermediaries.
Addressing the launch programme, Shri Chouhan said Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s clear vision is to ensure that the government remains accessible to citizens and farmers at all times through their mobile phones. Technology, he said, could fulfil its true purpose only when it reached farms and rural communities and made farmers’ lives easier. With the upgraded portal, farmers will no longer need to visit multiple government offices or navigate different websites to obtain information about schemes or submit applications. The platform will also bring together Farmer Producer Organisations, Primary Agricultural Credit Societies, agricultural scientists, researchers and startups, creating a common digital platform for the wider agricultural ecosystem. Emphasising the importance of reliable information, Shri Chouhan directed officials to ensure that the portal remained accurate and regularly updated. He said outdated or incomplete information could undermine public trust in the system, making continuous updates essential to its success. He also stressed that the language and processes must be simple enough for small and marginal farmers, including those with limited formal education, to understand and use the platform with ease. To help farmers make effective use of the portal and other digital tools, a special training campaign will be conducted through Krishi Vigyan Kendras across the country.Shri Chouhan also commended the entire technical team for developing the upgraded portal within the stipulated time. Developed in compliance with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology’s Digital Brand Identity Manual 3.0 and Guidelines for Indian Government Websites 3.0, the portal is designed to offer a secure, mobile-friendly and accessible digital experience, including for persons with disabilities. The platform will serve as a single-window gateway to major government initiatives, including PM-KISAN, AgriStack and the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, making it easier for farmers to access relevant services and information through a common interface. Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Secretary Shri Atish Chandra, Additional Secretary Pramod Meherda, senior officials from the Digital Agriculture Division and other officials from the Ministry and the National Informatics Centre were present at the launch.
Key Benefits of the Agri Welfare Portal
All services in one place: Information on the Ministry’s schemes, subsidies, rules and digital services will be available on a single portal, reducing the time and effort farmers spend navigating multiple platforms.Greater transparency and fewer intermediaries: Online eligibility checks, direct application facilities and the transfer of financial assistance through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) will make processes more transparent and reduce the role of intermediaries.Designed for rural connectivity: Built with rural users in mind, the portal is lightweight and user-friendly, enabling smooth operation on basic smartphones and in areas with weak internet connectivity.Timely and reliable agricultural information: Farmers will be able to access authentic information on weather conditions, scientific farming practices, the availability of seeds and fertilisers, and prevailing market prices for agricultural produce.Accessible to persons with disabilities: Designed in line with modern government accessibility standards, the portal supports screen readers and simple navigation, enabling visually impaired users and other persons with disabilities to access its services more easily.
SITRA and TTRI Sign MoU to Strengthen Textile Research and Sustainability
Wednesday, 21st Oct 2026, (Source: www.textilevaluechain.in)
India–Taiwan collaboration will focus on advanced fibres, medical textiles, sustainable processing, technical textiles and joint research initiatives.
The South India Textile Research Association (SITRA) and the Taiwan Textile Research Institute (TTRI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance research and technical cooperation in textile innovation and technology development. The agreement was signed on October 6, 2026, during the Taipei Innovative Textile Application Show (TITAS) 2026, held in Taiwan from October 6 to 8.
Mr. G. Raj Kumar, Vice Chairman of SITRA, signed the MoU on behalf of the Indian research organisation, while Mr. Chiu Sheng-fu, Vice President of TTRI, represented the Taiwanese institute. Industry leaders from the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) attended the signing ceremony.
Focus on Advanced Fibres and Technical Textiles
The partnership will focus on developing man-made fibres for speciality applications, medical textiles and sustainable solutions for textile processing.
SITRA will contribute its expertise in textile research, testing, consultancy, training and industry support. TTRI will bring its capabilities in advanced textile technologies, applied research and innovation.
The agreement aims to strengthen cooperation through capacity building, collaborative research and development, testing, and technology development.
Training, Research and Knowledge Exchange
Planned activities under the MoU include training programmes, expert lectures, workshops, researcher interactions, industrial visits and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
The two organisations will also explore collaboration in several emerging and established areas, including:
Sustainable textile processing and resource-efficient manufacturing
Functional and technical textiles
Advanced fibre development
Textile recycling and circularity
Digitalisation and automation
These areas are intended to support research collaboration and the development of technologies relevant to the textile industry.
Cooperation in Testing and Standards
Testing and standards will form another part of the partnership. Cooperation in this area will cover quality assurance, laboratory practices, method validation, proficiency comparisons and alignment with international requirements.
The initiative aims to support the development of textile products that meet requirements for safety, durability, sustainability and global compliance.
Strengthening India–Taiwan Textile Cooperation
The MoU establishes a framework for closer collaboration between SITRA and TTRI in textile research and technology development. Through joint research initiatives and knowledge exchange, the organisations aim to strengthen technical capabilities and support the development of innovative and sustainable textile technologies for the benefit of both industries.
