Cotton body projects output at 312 lakh bales during 2009-10

With cotton acreage rising by almost 14% across the country as on September 3 because of good delayed rains, the Cotton Association of India (CAI) has estimated that production in 2009-10 could stand at around 312.25 lakh bales (of 170 kg each), almost 6.5% more than current year?s estimated output of 292 lakh bales.

The total area under cotton is estimated to rise to around 100 lakh hectares by the close of this sowing season, while domestic consumption is estimated at 250 lakh bales.

As a result of higher production, cotton exports from India is expected to be around 65 lakh bales, as against 32 lakh bales this year, CAI said.

The projected balance sheet drawn by CAI for 2009-10, estimates that the total cotton supplies to be at 386.50 lakh bales.

The domestic consumption would be 250 lakh bales, thus leaving a surplus of 136.50 lakh bales.

With the revival of monsoon in most of the regions, the present condition of the cotton crop is extremely good.

While plantings so far have touched about 97 lakh hectares, additional 2-3 lakh hectares are expected to be covered in the south zone where sowings are yet to be completed. It is likely that the area may touch 100 lakh hectares.

According to the South India Cotton Association, the standing crop is in full bloom in Punjab and Haryana, where weather also is favourable.

Arrivals have begun from early sown tracts. Price rules easy. In Rajasthan, cotton crop is at improved stage with partial helpful rains. Market arrivals in small quantities have started.

In the western region states of Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh crop situation is in good shape.

In the southern region, in Andhra Pradesh, sowing could be completed with plenty of rains and the crop volume is expected to be progressive towards last season.

Production is estimated to be 55 lakh bales against 53 lakh bales last season. In Karnataka the cotton cop is expected to be higher at 12 lakh bales than the 9 lakh bales in 2008-09.

In Tamil Nadu, rains are not widespread and also not in the cotton tracts and sowing operations are held up, especially in the rainfed areas of Thirunelveli, Ramanathapuram and Perambalaur districts.

Delayed rains may force farmers to switch to other crops. However total production may be slightly higher 5.5 lakh bales than 5 lakh bales last year.