The next cotton season starting October could see a record-equalling production of 375 lakh bales (of 170 kg each), according to the Cotton Association of India.
This is against 356.75 lakh bales this year.
weather
Crop conditions have improved since August and hence, a higher crop has been estimated for the forthcoming season, the association said.
The situation could improve further if the weather remains favourable, it said.
gujarat
According to the association, production in Gujarat is likely to rebound above 100 lakh bales, while production in Maharashtra could exceed 75 lakh bales.
northern states
Production in the northern region comprising Punjab, Haryana and the Ganganagar tracts of Rajasthan could drop to 52.50 lakh bales from 55 lakh bales last year.
It is also likely to be lower in Andhra Pradesh at 67.50 lakh bales (78 lakh bales).
demand
Excluding exports, demand is seen at 301 lakh bales (288 lakh bales).
Surplus is expected to be over 130 lakh bales out of which a significant quantity is likely to be exported.