Fungus has hit the cotton crop in Punjab as a result of the long monsoon season, which has lead to hot and moist conditions in almost the whole of Punjab province.
According to the agricultural department of Punjab, cotton crops never had the problem of fungal infestation. However, continuous rains and high moisture content in the atmosphere, lead to fungal attack on cotton bolls.
This setback could be limited to the current year only, owing to the excessive damage caused by the heavy rains. Such a situation has never emerged before and has caused a lot of anxiety to the Govt. officials.
The rains could also cut the cotton production by 10 to 15 percent in the affected areas. The officials, however, anticipate that the problem will not amplify further, as cotton picking has already begun.
Pest infestation, on cotton crops, caused mainly by Armyworm and Jassid, has also been reported. Such problems are largely because of the crops which are in different stages of growth, in different areas, due to varied atmospheric conditions.
Cotton seed is sown in different areas at different times because of the varied agricultural practices. Therefore, one particular remedy cannot be suggested for the crop throughout the region.
The concerned department has come up with several advisories to deal with the situation. It expects that, cotton cultivators will thoroughly follow the suggestions to protect the crop from further damage.
The officials have acknowledged that the recent floods and downpour has left about one million acres of cotton field affected. The situation is critical as the remaining crop is also under threat.
The officials anticipate that, in spite of all these problems, the condition may not become as bad as has been envisaged by many.
Fibre2fashion News Desk - India
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