Karnataka Agriculture Department Issues Summer Cotton Cultivation Advisory
The agriculture department in Koppal, Karnataka, has formally advised farmers to refrain from undertaking commercial cotton cultivation during the summer months of April and May. This critical advisory is based on the escalating temperatures and the anticipated water scarcity that could severely impact crop health and yield.
Lessons from the Previous Kharif Season
The department's warning stems from direct observations made during the 2025–26 kharif season, where elevated temperatures triggered a significant outbreak of red disease in cotton crops. This infestation led to stunted plant growth and substantial yield losses, causing considerable financial setbacks for many farmers who faced adverse growing conditions.
Escalating Environmental Concerns
Officials have highlighted that temperatures are projected to rise even further in the coming weeks. Concurrently, groundwater levels in tubewells have markedly declined, heightening the risk of acute water shortages. The department emphasized that such challenging conditions are likely to persist, posing a serious threat to the sustainability and viability of cotton crops if cultivated during this period.
Optimal Sowing Window for BT Cotton
In alignment with recommendations from agricultural scientists and the University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, the department has specified the ideal sowing window for BT cotton. Farmers are strongly urged to schedule their planting between the first week of June and the third week of July to maximize crop resilience and productivity.
Critical Guidelines for BT Cotton Cultivation
The advisory also reinforced essential cultivation practices for BT cotton. Each seed packet contains 125 grams of non-BT (refugee) seeds, which must be sown in four border rows surrounding the main field. This strategic practice is crucial for delaying pest resistance and facilitating the early detection of infestations. Officials noted that some farmers have been misusing these seeds and appealed for strict adherence to the prescribed method to ensure crop protection.
Documentation and Support for Farmers
Farmers have been instructed to retain all seed packets, any leftover seeds, purchase receipts, and informational pamphlets until after the harvest. These documents may serve as vital evidence in the event of crop-related issues or disputes. For further assistance, the office of the joint director of the agriculture department stated that farmers can seek information from local agricultural officers, Raitha Samparka Kendras, or scientists at the ICAR–Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Gangavathi.
