Maharashtra cotton farmers hold out for higher prices, await government aid

Cotton farmers in Maharashtra are holding back their produce, anticipating a bonus payout from the new government. Despite the Cotton Corporation of India (CCI) offering Rs 7,521 per quintal under the minimum support price (MSP) scheme, farmers believe a higher rate, potentially Rs 8,000, could be announced during the upcoming winter session.

Many farmers have avoided selling even to MSP centers, hoping for a better deal. The BJP’s election promise to increase soybean MSP from Rs 4,892 to Rs 6,000 has raised expectations for cotton, although no such announcement has been made.

In Pandharkawda, farmer expressed optimism for government aid. Farmers from Akola cited lower cotton yields and improving global prices as reasons for holding out. Currently, private market rates hover between Rs 7,000 and Rs 7,200 per quintal.

CCI has procured 1.4 lakh bales so far, with Maharashtra’s production estimated at 84 lakh bales, up by 4 lakh compared to last year. Nationally, cotton output is expected to drop to 299 lakh bales from 325 lakh bales last season. Farmers are banking on rising market trends and government intervention to secure better returns.