Question

Discuss the conditions of growth and distribution of cotton in India.

Answer 1

Conditions of Growth:

• Climate: Cotton is a tropical and subtropical crop that requires temperatures between 20°C and 30°C.
• Rainfall: It grows best in regions receiving 50–100 cm of rainfall. It can also be cultivated in areas with less rainfall if irrigation is available.
• Frost-free period: At least 200 frost-free days are essential for its successful cultivation.
• Soil: Black cotton soil (regur soil) of the Deccan Plateau and alluvial soils of the Northern Plain are most suitable.
• Labour: A large amount of human labour is needed during picking.

Distribution in India:

• India is the fourth-largest cotton producer in the world and accounts for about 8% of global production.
• Cotton occupies around 5% of the total cropped area in India.
  • In 2016–17, cotton was grown over 108 lakh hectares, producing 331 lakh bales (1 bale = 170 kg).
• Major cotton-producing states: Maharashtra, Gujarat, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Haryana, Rajasthan, Punjab, and Tamil Nadu.
• Hybrid seeds and improved quality of cotton, especially long staple cotton, have significantly increased production.