Farmers shift from cotton amid rising costs and uncertain returns

Metro India News | JOGULAMBA GADWAL

Agricultural fields in the Itikyal mandal, once known for extensive cotton cultivation are witnessing a significant shift this cropping season. Faced with recurring adverse weather conditions, rising cultivation costs, inconsistent yields, and volatile market prices, many farmers are moving away from cotton in favour of alternative crops such as chilli and red gram (pigeon pea). Farmers, particularly those dependent on wells and borewells for irrigation, are increasingly opting for chilli cultivation, which they believe offers better income potential despite its higher initial investment.

Across several villages in the mandal, farmers have already begun raising chilli seedlings in nurseries in preparation for transplanting them into their main fields. Special nursery beds have been prepared to support chilli cultivation, with farmers using quality seeds and paying close attention to irrigation and plant care. The seedlings are reported to be growing well, and agricultural observers expect the area under chilli cultivation in the mandal to increase substantially in the coming weeks.

Many growers say cotton cultivation has become increasingly unprofitable over the past several years. High input costs, recurring pest infestations, unpredictable weather patterns, and fluctuating market prices have often left farmers struggling to recover even their production expenses. Although chilli cultivation requires significant investment during the initial stages, farmers remain optimistic because a good harvest combined with favourable market prices can yield higher profits. They have urged the government to provide timely technical guidance on pest and disease management and ensure adequate extension support throughout the growing season.

With chilli cultivation expanding in the region, agriculture officials have advised farmers to use certified seeds and begin pest and disease management measures from the nursery stage. Officials say that adopting scientific cultivation practices and taking weather conditions into account can help improve productivity and maximize yields during the season.