India—the impact of coronavirus pandemic remains to be seen

 India—the impact of coronavirus pandemic remains to be seen
Although it is still some time before the start of the intensive sowing, industry observers are considering the possible impact of the pandemic on growers’ planting decisions this year. One issue worth discussing is that the price of food crops may rise to a certain extent, and if there is a shortage, the price of food may be higher than the price of cotton. The food reserved by the government, such as rice and lentils, are being distributed in the poorest communities, and its demand may improve later.

Meanwhile, the current restrictions on the movement of people mean that the winter crop harvest may be delayed, which will have a knock-on effect on summer planting. The transportation of seeds and supplies is not officially restricted, but, the shortage of trucks and drivers means that in actual operations, farmers may not be able to obtain the raw materials they need in time to meet the best planting plan.

However, the general view is that the minimum support price of cotton (under normal circumstances, will be evaluated in July) should provide guarantees for farmers who choose this crop. The reduction in minimum support prices has never occurred before.