The cotton-picking season in major producing states — Gujarat, Maharashtra, Telangana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Haryana, Karnataka, Punjab, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha — officially began on October 1, 2025. In a recent meeting with senior officials of these states and the Cotton Corporation of India (CCI), the Textile Ministry Secretary stressed that cotton growers must receive the benefits of the support scheme under all circumstances. Fresh arrivals of cotton have started or are about to begin in key mandis, where prices are currently running below MSP.

Highlighting cotton as a vital sector, the ministry said it is the main source of livelihood for millions of farmers and their families across the country, and therefore, it cannot be overlooked. A strong nationwide strategy for uninterrupted procurement from farmers is essential. During the meeting, clear guidelines were laid out, and states were urged to implement them fully.

According to available data, a record 550 procurement centers have been made operational this year across all 11 cotton-producing states to ensure farmers don’t have to travel far to sell their produce. The MSP for cotton has been increased by ₹589, setting the price at ₹7,510 per quintal for medium staple varieties and ₹8,110 per quintal for long staple varieties. At the national level, the cotton acreage has declined from 113 lakh hectares last year to 110 lakh hectares this year, with some crop damage reported due to floods and heavy rains. However, crop conditions in other regions are reported to be satisfactory.