Archive · 22 Jul 2026
Jalgaon Farmers Shift to Maize Amid Cotton Decline
In Jalgaon, farmers are growing more maize and less cotton this year.
Cotton usually covers a lot of land, but this time, farmers have planted 20% less because it's not as profitable.
Maize is cheaper to grow and is in high demand for animal feed and ethanol.
This change worries the owners of cotton ginning factories, as they need a lot of cotton to keep their businesses running.
Farmers also face higher costs for labor and supplies, making maize a better choice.
Jalgaon district, known for cotton, sees a 20% drop in cotton acreage this Kharif season.
Farmers are shifting to maize due to lower production costs and higher demand.
Maize requires less water and labor, making it more attractive to farmers.
Ginning factories in Khandesh are concerned about the decline in cotton supply.
Pulse crops like tur and moong, along with soybean, also see increased sowing.
- Who
- Farmers in Jalgaon district
- What
- Shift from cotton to maize cultivation
- When
- This Kharif season
- Where
- Jalgaon district, Maharashtra
- Why
- Due to unsatisfactory cotton prices, higher production costs, and increased demand for maize
Farmers' Perspective
Ginning Industry Perspective
Crop Choice
Farmers' Perspective
Farmers prefer maize due to lower production costs, less water usage, and higher demand for animal feed and ethanol.
Ginning Industry Perspective
Ginning factories rely on cotton and are concerned about the 20% decline in cotton acreage.
- District
- Jalgaon
- Total Kharif Crops Area
- 740,000 hectares
- Cotton Area This Season
- 418,000 hectares
- Maize Area This Season
- 160,000 hectares
- Ginning Factories in Khandesh
- Over 150