Late monsoon showers revive cotton crop in Yadgir, sowing exceeds target

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 showers have significantly improved soil moisture levels, restoring crop health and raising hopes of a good harvest this season.

Yadgir, one of the key cotton-growing districts in Karnataka, relies heavily on the southwest monsoon for its agricultural output. The recent rainfall has therefore come as a significant booster for farmers, who depend on cotton as their primary commercial crop.

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. Farmers were growing anxious as the young plants showed signs of stress. However, the recent rains have reversed the situation, with the crop now showing visible signs of recovery across the district.

In a rain-fed agricultural district like Yadgir, the timing of monsoon showers is critical. The late July and early August rainfall came at a crucial stage — after sowing and weeding operations had been completed, and plants required adequate moisture for steady growth. The improved soil moisture has not only revived the crop but also reduced the immediate need for irrigation.

According to data released by the Agriculture Department, overall cotton sowing in Yadgir has surpassed the target for the current year. Against a target of 2,02,452 hectares, farmers have cultivated cotton across 2,15,603 hectares, achieving 106% of the targeted area. This reflects the confidence of farmers in the crop, despite the initial dry spell.

Five out of the district's six taluks recorded sowing achievements above 100%. Yadgir taluk led with 44,063 hectares sown against a target of 38,240 hectares, achieving 115.23%. Hunsagi followed with 31,332 hectares against 27,850 hectares (112.50%), and Shorapur recorded 43,068 hectares against 39,380 hectares (109.37%). Gurmitkal achieved 101.25% with 26,830 hectares against 26,526 hectares, while Wadagera reached 101.11% with 28,820 hectares against 28,788 hectares. Shahapur taluk was the only one to fall short, sowing 41,490 hectares against a target of 41,668 hectares, achieving 99.57%.

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," said Vijay Kumar Gulgi, a farmer from Satyampet village.

Presently, cotton is at the flowering and boll formation stage, depending on the period of sowing in different parts of the district. This is a critical phase in the crop's life cycle, and adequate moisture is essential for the development of healthy bolls. The recent rains have provided the necessary moisture, but timely follow-up showers will be vital for the final yield. Farmers are hoping for one or two more spells of rain in the coming weeks to ensure a good harvest.

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. Officials have also urged farmers to monitor their fields regularly for signs of pest infestation, which can be more prevalent during the flowering stage.

The revival of the cotton crop is significant not only for farmers but also for the broader economy of Yadgir, where agriculture is the primary livelihood. Cotton is a major commercial crop in the district, and a healthy harvest could provide a substantial boost to rural incomes and related trade activities. As the season progresses, farmers and officials alike will be keeping a close watch on weather conditions and the health of the crop.