Pakistan’s Cotton Revival: From Labs to Fields
Pakistan’s cotton revival is increasingly shaped not merely by acreage but by seed quality, genetic potential of varieties, and their performance under diverse climates. At a time when cotton area has contracted and domestic production lags, the National Seed Development & Regulatory Authority's (NSDRA) Cotton Travelling Seminar 2026 brings research directly to farmers' fields.
This nationwide initiative (September 15-21) gathers seed regulators, agricultural researchers, scientists, provincial agriculture departments, seed companies, field experts, and growers to examine:
- Performance of new cotton varieties
- Quality of planting material
- Pest and disease pressures
- Production technologies
- Farmers' practical challenges
The seminar transforms the conventional conference model into a field-based exercise, visiting major research centers in Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan. Experts from NSDRA, Punjab Agriculture Department, Ayub Agricultural Research Institute (AARI), National Institute for Biotechnology & Genetic Engineering (NIBGE), Nuclear Institute for Agriculture & Biology (NIAB), and other organizations participate.
Pakistan's cotton economy showed a slight decline in 2025-26 to 7.052 million bales, according to the Pakistan Economic Survey. This was attributed to farmers adjusting their choices due to relative returns and competing Kharif crops. Productivity, not just acreage, is now a key focus.
Key Considerations:
- Seed Quality: The quality of seed plays a crucial role in cotton production.
- Genetic Potential: New varieties' performance under diverse climates is essential.
- Regulation & Research: Efficient regulation and rapid dissemination of scientific research to farmers are vital for success.
While Punjab dominates with 58.89% of the country's cotton area, Sindh accounts for 28.10%, followed by Balochistan.