Punjab has seen a notable decline in cotton cultivation over the past several years.
Punjab has seen a notable decline in cotton cultivation over the past several years, with neighbouring states like Haryana and Rajasthan performing better in cotton production. In response, a high-level meeting of the Interstate Consultative and Monitoring Committee on cotton was held under the leadership of Dr. Satbir Singh Gosal, Vice-Chancellor of Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, to discuss solutions for revitalizing cotton farming.
Farmers in Punjab’s semi-arid regions have suffered significant economic setbacks due to pest infestations, especially from the pink bollworm, and unfavorable weather conditions. The absence of strong policies to support cotton cultivation has further discouraged farmers from growing the crop.
Dr. Gosal expressed concern over the decline in cotton acreage not only in Punjab but also across South and Central India. He emphasized the need for a coordinated effort to boost cotton cultivation through improved pest management, better irrigation, and the promotion of scientifically validated agronomic practices. He pointed out that PAU had recommended 59 Bt cotton hybrids and called for ensuring high-quality seed availability for farmers. Additionally, he advocated for the use of mating disruption technology to control pink bollworm infestations and discouraged growing summer moong in the cotton belt, as it helps sustain the whitefly population.
Officials at the meeting discussed joint campaigns to combat whitefly infestations and outlined strategies like fumigating ginning factories and eliminating pest breeding grounds. They also conducted awareness camps to educate farmers about expanding cotton cultivation and adopting effective pest control techniques.
Experts warned that the continued decline in cotton cultivation could negatively impact crop diversification efforts, leading to a shift toward water-intensive paddy cultivation, especially in areas with depleted groundwater levels. They stressed the need for government intervention and expert involvement to prevent farmers from abandoning cotton farming.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to strengthen Punjab’s cotton sector through scientific interventions and collaborative efforts involving farmers, scientists, and policymakers. Notable attendees included Dr. Kulwant Singh, Dr. Makhan Singh Bhullar, Dr. G.S. Mangat, Dr. Manmeet Kaur Bhullar, Dr. Jagdish Singh, and other agricultural experts from various districts.
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