Vehari district has achieved 90 per cent of its cotton cultivation target for the current season, with the first cotton picking already underway and yields ranging between eight and 12 maunds per acre. Seasonal cotton harvesting is expected to commence by the end of August, according to officials.
Shortfall Due to Crop Diversification
Officials noted that the expansion of maize and other crops on traditional cotton-growing land affected efforts to achieve the full cultivation target. During a meeting of the Cotton Crop Management Committee, presided over by Deputy Commissioner Khalid Javed Goraya, a detailed review of cultivation and production in the district was carried out.
Comparative Analysis Ordered
The deputy commissioner directed the agriculture department to prepare a comparative report analysing the factors behind the shortfall against data from the past three years. This report aims to identify trends and inform future planning.
Market Prices and Inputs
The meeting participants were informed that cotton prices are linked to international market trends, fertiliser supplies remain adequate, and no major pest attacks have been reported so far. These factors are expected to support farmer incomes and production stability.
Awareness Campaign Launched
Agriculture department field staff have launched an awareness campaign at the village level to encourage cotton cultivation. The campaign aims to educate farmers on best practices and the economic benefits of cotton farming, in an effort to reverse the trend of crop diversification away from cotton.
