Cotton Farming in Rajasthan: Challenges and Solutions

Rajasthan's Cotton Belt

Cotton is primarily grown in the southern districts of Rajasthan — Banswara, Dungarpur, Udaipur, Chittorgarh, and Bhilwara. The crop area has been expanding steadily with the introduction of Bt cotton hybrids.

Key Challenges

Water Scarcity: Rajasthan receives limited rainfall. Drip irrigation and mulching can help conserve moisture.

Pink Bollworm: The biggest pest threat. Use refuge rows (non-Bt cotton) and timely insecticide application to manage PBW.

Whitefly: Install yellow sticky traps and use neem-based sprays as preventive measures.

Recommended Practices

Choose Bt cotton hybrids like Synergy BG-II 909 that offer both bollworm resistance and drought tolerance. Maintain 90 x 60 cm spacing for optimal plant population. Apply 120:60:60 NPK per hectare with micronutrients (Zinc and Boron).

Market Outlook

Cotton prices have been remunerative in recent years. With MSP at Rs. 7,020/quintal (2024-25), cotton remains one of the most profitable kharif crops in Rajasthan.