Mon. 4th May 2026 by Yash Chouhan
Severe Heat Poses Crisis for Cotton Cultivation; Farmers Turn Towards Pre-Monsoon Sowing
The 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.