Maharashtra Cotton Farmers Face Crop Failure Amid Drought and Heat

Times of India · india

Farmers across Maharashtra's cotton belt are facing severe crop failure due to a prolonged drought and intense heat. The monsoon failed large parts of the state, leading to a dry spell of 30 to 45 days, which has stunted cotton plants. Instead of the usual 40-50 bolls per plant, many are finding only four to twelve, with flowers and young bolls withering. Cotton production in Yavatmal could decline by nearly 50%. Many farmers borrowed heavily for sowing and now fear they won't even recover costs, leading to significant debt.