Favourable rainfall helps revive cotton crop in Yadgir after a prolonged dry spell

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Cotton growers have expressed optimism about the current crop’s growth. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

​Favourable rainfall in late July and early August has brought much-needed relief to farmers across Yadgir district, reviving the cotton crop that had begun to wither following a prolonged dry spell.

​The district experienced continuous dry weather for several weeks, even after the mid-monsoon sowing season. Deficient moisture after post-weeding operations had begun to damage the cotton crop slightly. However, the recent showers have significantly improved soil moisture levels, restoring crop health.

​According to data released by the Agriculture Department, overall cotton sowing in the district has surpassed its target. Against a target of 2,02,452 hectares for the current year, farmers have cultivated cotton across 2,15,603 hectares — achieving 106% of the targeted area.

​Five out of the district’s six taluks recorded sowing achievements above 100%. The taluk-wise breakdown of coverage against targets is as follows:

In Yadgir 44,063 hectares have been sown against 38,240 hectares (115.23%); in Hunsagi 31,332 hectares against 27,850 hectares (112.50%); in Shorapur 43,068 hectares against 39,380 hectares (109.37%); in Gurmitkal 26,830 hectares against 26,526 hectares (101.25%); in Wadagera 28,820 hectares against 28,788 hectares (101.11%); and in Shahapur 41,490 hectares have been sown against 41,668 hectares (99.57%) respectively.

Cotton growers have expressed optimism about the current crop’s growth. “We have already carried out weeding operations four times, alongside two rounds of chemical spraying and fertilizer application. If weather conditions remain favourable in the coming weeks, we are confident of harvesting a good yield,” Vijay Kumar Gulgi, a farmer from Satyampet village, said.

Presently, cotton is at the flowering and boll formation stage, depending on the period of sowing in different parts of the district.

​Agriculture Department officials said that continuous awareness programmes are being conducted across the district. These sessions aim to guide farmers on optimal fertilizer schedules, chemical applications, and effective pest management strategies to protect the growing crop.

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