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On Monday, the Indian Rupee fell by 13 paise to close at 95.08 per dollar, while it had opened at 94.95 in the morning.At close, the Sensex was up 355.90 points or 0.46 percent at 77,269.40, and the Nifty was up 121.75 points or 0.51 percent at 24,119.30.read more :- Consideration of Limited Exemption on Cotton Import Duty

Government’s Middle Ground on Cotton Import Duty: Considering Short-Term Relief or Duty ReductionUnion Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan has signaled a move toward finding a "middle ground" amidst the ongoing differences between the industry and the Ministry of Agriculture regarding cotton import duties. The textile industry had demanded zero import duty on cotton until December 2026, a proposal that the Ministry of Agriculture has been opposing. The Ministry argues that such a move would send a negative signal to farmers, particularly at a time when cotton sowing has already commenced.According to sources, one potential option under consideration is to permit zero-duty imports for a limited duration during the September-October period, as domestic stocks are deemed sufficient to meet demand until August. A second option involves reducing the existing 11% import duty to approximately 6–7%.During a high-level meeting attended by officials from the FIEO and various government ministries, it was noted that the Cotton Corporation of India currently holds a stock of approximately 47 lakh bales of cotton. When combined with private sector stocks, the country is well-positioned to meet domestic demand until August.However, the industry argues that domestic prices remain high, thereby driving up production costs and undermining export competitiveness. Conversely, with the new harvest expected to arrive starting in October, the government must make a decision that carefully balances both short-term and long-term considerations.Cotton production for the 2025–26 season is projected to decline to approximately 290.91 lakh bales, down from 297.24 lakh bales in the previous year. The acreage under cultivation is also shrinking—a trend attributed to pest infestations, a shift toward alternative crops, and the expectation of better financial returns elsewhere.According to the Cotton Association of India, for the upcoming season, production is projected to reach 324 lakh bales, consumption is estimated at 315 lakh bales, and imports could rise to 47 lakh bales. Against this backdrop, the government aims to strike a delicate balance between the needs of the industry and the interests of the farmers.read more :- Clothing prices have risen in Gujarat's textile industry due to increased costs.

Rising Cotton Yarn Prices and Processing Costs Drive Up Clothing Prices in GujaratThe pressure of rising costs on Gujarat's textile industry has become clearly evident. Driven by strong demand for cotton yarn from China and Bangladesh, prices have surged to a record high of ₹300 per kilogram—a level not seen in nearly four years. This impact has reverberated across the entire textile value chain, leading to an increase in clothing prices and a shortage of supply in the market.According to industry experts, clothing prices have risen by ₹10 to ₹25 per meter over the past month and a half. The primary reasons behind this are not limited to the rising cost of yarn alone; an increase in processing charges has also played a significant role. A surge in fuel and chemical prices has made textile processing more expensive, while the closure of several powerloom units has adversely affected production output.Traders report that this cost escalation has now reached the retail level, and consumers are consequently facing higher prices for clothing. However, manufacturers believe that the impact on the domestic market may remain limited, as the majority of the stock for the current season has already reached the market. Furthermore, there remains scope to renegotiate prices for the upcoming season. It is estimated that retail prices could witness an increase of 5% to 8%.Conversely, the export sector is feared to face a negative impact, as it is difficult to pass on these increased costs to clients due to pre-existing contracts. The industry has also expressed concern regarding the high prices and limited availability of raw cotton, urging the Central Government to waive the 11% import duty currently in place.Rising logistics costs, shipping delays, and the pressure of global competition have further exacerbated the situation. If conditions do not improve, the repercussions on production, exports, and employment could be widespread.read more :- Cotton Cultivation in Crisis Due to Extreme Heat; Pre-Monsoon Sowing Increases

Severe Heat Poses Crisis for Cotton Cultivation; Farmers Turn Towards Pre-Monsoon SowingThe severe heat gripping Akola district this year has created a grave crisis for cotton cultivation. Since the month of April, temperatures have hovered around 44 degrees Celsius, while in several regions, they have even soared to 47 degrees. Under these circumstances, sowing cotton during the summer season has become an extremely risky endeavor for farmers.Due to the scorching sun and rising temperatures, the soil surface is becoming excessively hot, thereby increasing the risk of sown seeds burning up or perishing before they even get a chance to germinate. This situation has deepened the anxieties of farmers, prompting many to steer clear of cotton cultivation during the current summer season.Furthermore, the water crisis is also intensifying rapidly. Water levels in wells, ponds, and borewells are plummeting fast, resulting in an acute shortage of water available for irrigation. Consequently, even farmers engaged in horticulture are beginning to withdraw from cotton cultivation.In light of these challenges, farmers are now increasingly gravitating towards pre-monsoon sowing. They believe that if cultivation is undertaken at the right time and under favorable weather conditions, the yield could be significantly better.The Agriculture Department has also advised farmers to refrain from sowing cotton until temperatures subside. Hasty decisions could lead to financial losses. Additionally, concerns have been raised regarding the potential for an increased infestation of pests amidst the extreme heat.If the intense heat persists over the coming weeks, it could have a direct impact on cotton production. Therefore, farmers should formulate their cultivation plans strictly based on weather forecasts and expert advice.read more :- The Rupee opened at 94.95 down 3 paise.

The Rupee opened at 94.95/USD down 3 paise.On Monday, the Indian Rupee opened at 94.95 against the Dollar a decline of 3 paise whereas it had closed at 94.92 on Thursday.Read more:- CCI Hikes Cotton Prices by ₹300; Weekly Sales Cross 2.53 Lakh Bales

CCI Hikes Cotton Prices by ₹300 per Candy; Weekly Auction Sales Cross 2.53 Lakh BalesThe Cotton Corporation of India (CCI) increased cotton prices by ₹300 per candy during the week of April 27–30, 2026. Strong participation from mills and traders was observed in the auctions, resulting in total weekly sales of approximately 2,53,500 bales for the 2025–26 season.Day-wise Auction HighlightsApril 27 (Monday):The week opened on a firm note with sales of 45,100 bales. Traders led the buying activity with 27,600 bales, while mills procured 17,500 bales.April 28 (Tuesday):Auction volumes eased to 31,300 bales. Traders remained active, purchasing 22,500 bales, while mills bought 8,800 bales.April 29 (Wednesday):Sales picked up to 40,900 bales. Mills purchased 16,500 bales, whereas traders accounted for 24,400 bales.April 30 (Thursday):The week concluded on a strong note, registering the highest single-day sales of 1,36,200 bales. Traders dominated with 81,600 bales, while mills purchased 54,600 bales.Cumulative Sales Update:Total sales for the 2025–26 season have reached 60,12,500 bales.

India's textile output declines in March amid Iran conflict and rising costsIn March, India's textile industry came under pressure from many fronts, due to which a decline in production was recorded. Key segments like readymade garments, cotton textiles and blended fabrics were the most affected. Rising input costs, global geopolitical tensions and weak demand further accelerated this decline.According to the data, textile manufacturing declined by 3.6% year-on-year in March, while apparel production recorded a sharp decline of 14.6%. The situation remained quite challenging on the cost front. Cotton yarn prices rose by nearly 20%, while polymers used in packaging became costlier by 50%. Additionally, an increase in the prices of paper by 10% and that of dyes and chemicals by nearly 40% further increased the cost of production.The ongoing conflict in West Asia, particularly developments involving Iran, severely impacted shipments and logistics. Many export orders were stuck, freight costs increased, and war-risk insurance also became expensive. Fluctuations in crude oil prices further increased input costs, putting pressure on companies' margins and tightening working capital conditions.The decline was widespread across various segments of production. Production of polyester/viscose blended fabrics declined by 13.1%, while cotton fabrics also saw a decline of about 4%. The home textile segment, particularly terry towels, declined 6.1%. At the same time, the decline in readymade garments was greater—non-knitted garments production fell by 14.9% and knitted garments production fell by 11%.Challenges remain at the global level also. US tariffs, disruption in trade routes and increasing competition from Vietnam and Bangladesh have impacted exports. Also, weakness in domestic demand also remains a matter of concern for the industry.Overall, the textile and apparel sector—which contributes 2.3% to India's GDP and about 13% to industrial output—faces uncertainty in the near term. If geopolitical tensions and cost pressures continue, the impact on production and profits could persist further.read more :- Suggestions for Better Income from Cotton Cultivation

Good earning from cotton cultivation: Get bumper production with the advice of Agriculture DepartmentSowing of cotton has started in Khairthal-Tijara district from April 15 and is likely to continue till the last week of May. This year, the Agriculture Department has set a target of cotton cultivation in 6000 hectares, which is less than last year's target of 10,000 hectares. Last season, sowing could be done only in 8594 hectares. The main reasons behind the decline in cotton area in the region are better prices of millet and onion, lack of water and increasing diseases in the crops.Necessary preparation for good yieldFor better production, farmers have been advised to choose improved varieties of seeds and treat them before sowing. It is necessary to do deep plowing of the field so that the fertility of the soil increases. Also, use of local cow dung manure is beneficial for the crop.If there is a problem of termites in the field, then apply 10 ml per kg seed. Chlorpyrifos 20 EC and 10 ml. Treat with water mixture. After treatment, dry the seeds in shade for 30–40 minutes and sow them.Advanced sowing techniques and irrigationThe Agriculture Department has advised sowing by dibbling method:Row to row distance: 108 cmPlant to Plant Distance: 60 cmBy arranging rows from east to west, it is said that there is a possibility of getting more production as compared to north-south. The first irrigation should be done about 15 days after sowing.Fertilizer and Pest ManagementFertilizer: Apply 37.5 kg nitrogen per bigha along with 10 kg potash and phosphorus at the time of sowing.Termite Control: 4–5 ml. Dissolve Chlorpyrifos 20 EC per liter of water and apply it near the roots.Disease control: For blight disease, spray 30–32 grams of Mancozeb mixed in 15 liters of water.Sucking Pests: Kunal Force 25 EC 2ml for jassid and aphid control. Use by mixing it in every liter of water.By adopting these scientific methods, farmers can achieve better production and more profits in the cotton crop.read more :- Relief for Exporters, but Dispute Over Cotton Import Duty

Difference on cotton import duty reduction: Textile Ministry, Agriculture Ministry cautious in favor of giving relief to exportersDifferences have emerged within the central government regarding reduction in import duty on raw cotton. While the Textiles Ministry is supporting reduction or removal of duty to provide relief to apparel exporters, the Agriculture Ministry is currently not agreeing to this proposal keeping in mind the interests of farmers. The ongoing geopolitical crisis in West Asia has increased costs for exporters, affecting their competitiveness.The Textiles Ministry argues that the temporary cut in import duty will reduce the cost of raw materials and boost exports. The ministry has also assured that this step will be taken only in off-season, so that domestic farmers are not negatively impacted. Despite this, the Agriculture Ministry is adopting a cautious approach considering this issue as economically and politically sensitive and wants to take decisions only after extensive consultation.The Revenue Department has also clarified that the consent of the Agriculture Ministry will be mandatory for any change in import duty, which may slow down the decision process. Meanwhile, the Apparel Export Promotion Council has sought intervention from the Finance Ministry, saying cotton prices are continuously rising due to supply shortage, especially in North India. Mills now have to depend more on the auctions of Cotton Corporation of India.Exporters say that the cost of production is increasing due to increased speculation in the market and increase in prices of yarn and fabric. Due to this, despite strong global demand, the competitiveness of Indian exporters is weakening. He has appealed to the government to immediately remove the import duty.Although India is one of the major cotton producers, there is still a need for imports in the off-season. The production estimate for 2025-26 is 320.50 lakh bales, but balancing the interests of both farmers and industry in policy decisions remains a major challenge.read more :- Cotton Crisis in Haryana: Pink Bollworm Infestation

'Pink crisis' on cotton in Haryana: Farmers scared of pest attack, trend towards millet-guar increasedThe “pink crisis” is currently deepening in cotton cultivation in Haryana. Despite high market prices, farmers are staying away from cotton sowing and turning to alternative crops.According to the information received from Dhigawa Mandi, the price of Narma cotton is currently between Rs 8 to 10 thousand per quintal, but despite this, farmers seem to be losing confidence in this crop. It is estimated that this year the area under cotton may decrease by 60 to 65 percent as compared to last year.The biggest reason for the disillusionment of farmers is the outbreak of “pink bollworm”. Last year, this insect had caused huge damage to the cotton crop, due to which farmers had to harvest the crop prematurely. Due to this experience, this time farmers are in no mood to take risks.In view of the situation, the Agriculture Department had already taken several steps out of caution. The officials inspected the cotton mills and gave instructions to keep the cotton seeds covered, so that the spread of pink bollworm could be stopped. Farmers were also advised to remove or destroy cotton residues left in the fields, so that the life cycle of the pest could be broken.Despite this, the impact remained limited and farmers are now rapidly shifting towards crops like millet, guar and moong. Loharu and Bahal areas of Bhiwani district, which were once known for cotton production, are also seeing a changing crop pattern.According to farmers, falling groundwater levels, uncertainty over the minimum support price, and increasing threat of pests like pink bollworm and whitefly are the main reasons for their shift away from cotton.Last year, cotton was cultivated in about 1.52 lakh acres in Bhiwani district, but this time sowing has been done in very less area so far. Experts believe that 8 to 10 thousand more acres can be sown in the coming days.According to the Agriculture Department, the weather is likely to remain favorable for cotton sowing for the next few days as the temperature has dropped after the recent rains. However, considering the trend of farmers, a decline in cotton production this year is considered certain.read more :- The rupee closed 11 paisa higher against the dollar at 94.91

The Indian rupee opened at 94.91 per US dollar on Thursday and appreciated by 11 paise to settle at 95.02 by the close.At close, the Sensex was down 582.86 points or 0.75 percent at 76,913.50, and the Nifty was down 180.1 points or 0.74 percent at 23,997.55.read more :- Crisis in Punjab's Cotton Industry: Decline in Production