Decline in Cultivation Area
Cotton Cultivation Decline in Tamil Nadu: The area under cotton cultivation in Tamil Nadu, particularly in the delta region, is witnessing a significant decline this year. Farmers report reduced incentives due to stagnant pricing and inadequate procurement mechanisms. Static GK fact: Tamil Nadu contributes nearly 4% of India’s total cotton production.
Challenges Faced by Farmers
Farmers harvesting cotton during July (aadi pattam) received only last year’s Minimum Support Price (MSP). The Cotton Corporation of India (CCI) has not procured cotton in Tamil Nadu since 2019, leaving farmers without assured buyers. This has increased financial stress on small and marginal cultivators.
Comparison with Andhra Pradesh
Unlike Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh provides transport support to cotton growers. The absence of similar support in Tamil Nadu discourages cultivation and increases the cost burden for farmers. Static GK tip: MSP schemes were introduced in 1966 to ensure fair pricing for farmers and prevent distress sales.
Impact on Delta Region Farmers
There are over 15,000 cotton growers in Tamil Nadu’s delta region. Most have small land holdings averaging three to four acres, limiting their capacity to absorb market and climatic shocks. The decline in cotton cultivation could reduce overall agricultural income and affect the rural economy.
Government and Market Dynamics
The lack of procurement under MSP and absence of state support has pushed farmers toward alternative crops like paddy, sugarcane, and maize. The shift may affect local textile supply chains that rely on regionally sourced cotton. Static GK fact: India is the world’s second-largest cotton producer after China.
Economic and Policy Implications
Declining cotton cultivation may impact rural employment, as cotton picking and associated labor work are significant for seasonal laborers. Policymakers need to consider reintroducing MSP procurement and transport subsidies to sustain cultivation in the delta region.
Alternative Measures
Experts suggest promoting contract farming and crop insurance schemes to safeguard smallholders. Enhancing access to modern farming techniques and incentivizing organic cotton cultivation could revive interest in cotton farming. Static GK tip: Contract farming in India was first encouraged under the Model APMC Act 2003.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Cotton Cultivation Decline in Tamil Nadu:
| Topic | Detail |
| Decline Area | Cotton cultivation area in Tamil Nadu delta region declining |
| Farmers Affected | Over 15,000 with 3–4 acres average land holdings |
| MSP Status | Farmers received last year’s MSP; no procurement by CCI since 2019 |
| Comparative State Support | Andhra Pradesh provides transport support; Tamil Nadu does not |
| Alternative Crops | Paddy, sugarcane, maize gaining preference |
| Economic Impact | Potential reduction in rural income and employment |
| Policy Suggestions | Reintroduce MSP procurement, transport subsidies, contract farming |
| National Context | India is second-largest cotton producer globally |
