Top 5 Cotton-Producing States in India: Leading the Way in ‘White Gold’ Harvest

Cotton-Producing States in India: Cotton is a cornerstone of India’s agricultural economy, often referred to as “White Gold” due to its immense value. Over the years, India has become the world’s largest cotton producer, surpassing China. In 2024, India is expected to produce around 346 lakh bales of cotton (each bale weighing 170 kg). The cotton season in India runs from October 1st to September 30th, and as this major crop plays a pivotal role in the livelihoods of many, it’s essential to know where the majority of this cotton comes from. Here, we’ll explore the top 5 cotton-producing states in India that drive the country’s impressive cotton output.

Top 5 Cotton-Producing States in India

1. Gujarat

Gujarat holds the crown as India’s top cotton producer, contributing about 27% of the country’s total output. In the 2023-24 season, Gujarat is expected to produce 94.41 lakh bales of cotton. The state devotes around 15.19 lakh hectares to cotton cultivation, and key cotton-growing districts include Amreli, Bhavnagar, Junagarh, and Rajkot. Cotton farming is a significant part of Gujarat’s booming agricultural sector. Cotton-Producing States in India

2. Maharashtra

Coming in second, Maharashtra accounts for 23% of India’s total cotton production. The state’s cotton output for 2023-24 is projected to be 80.71 lakh bales. With its vast expanse across the Deccan Plateau, Maharashtra’s main cotton-growing regions include Nagpur, Aurangabad, and Jalgaon. Cotton has been a staple crop in Maharashtra for generations, playing a key role in the state’s agricultural economy.

3. Telangana

Telangana ranks third in cotton production, contributing 16% of India’s total cotton yield. For 2023-24, Telangana’s cotton output is forecasted at 30.50 lakh bales. The fertile lands of the Deccan Plateau are ideal for cotton cultivation, especially in districts like Adilabad, Warangal, and Khammam. Telangana has seen a steady rise in cotton production in recent years, thanks to favorable growing conditions. Cotton-Producing States in India

4. Rajasthan

Known as the ‘Land of Kings,’ Rajasthan takes the fourth spot, producing around 8% of the country’s cotton. The state’s cotton output for 2023-24 is expected to be 29.50 lakh bales. Major cotton-producing districts include Nagaur, Jodhpur, and Pali. While Rajasthan is known for its dry climate, its cotton-growing regions have adapted well to the challenging conditions, contributing significantly to the national output.

5. Karnataka

Karnataka rounds out the top five, producing 6% of India’s total cotton. In 2023-24, the state is projected to produce 22.50 lakh bales of cotton. Bijapur, Dharwad, and Bellary are among the key cotton-growing regions in the state. Cotton cultivation plays a crucial role in Karnataka’s economy, providing employment and supporting the rural population. Cotton-Producing States in India

Conclusion

Cotton remains a crucial crop for India, driving its agricultural economy and providing livelihoods to millions. Gujarat leads the way as the top cotton producer, followed closely by Maharashtra and Telangana. Cotton thrives in areas with the right soil and climatic conditions, which are predominantly found in North, South, and Central India. As we look ahead to 2024, these five states continue to play a critical role in India’s dominance in the global cotton market. Cotton-Producing States in India

Cotton-Producing States in India FAQs

Which state is the largest producer of cotton in India?

Gujarat is the largest cotton producer in India, contributing about 27% of the country’s total cotton production.

How much cotton is expected to be produced in India by 2024?

India is projected to produce approximately 346 lakh bales of cotton (each weighing 170 kg) by the end of September 2024.

Why is cotton called ‘White Gold’?

Cotton is often referred to as ‘White Gold’ because of its significant economic value and its crucial role in supporting the livelihoods of millions, especially in rural areas.

Which districts in Maharashtra are known for cotton production?

Nagpur, Aurangabad, and Jalgaon are some of the key districts in Maharashtra known for their high cotton production.

When does the cotton season begin and end in India?

The cotton season in India starts on October 1st and ends on September 30th of the following year.