Tummala Urges Cotton Farmers To Maintain Moisture Below 12% To Secure MSP

Telangana Agriculture Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao has urged cotton farmers to ensure that the moisture content in their produce does not exceed 12% before bringing it to market yards or ginning mills. He warned that cotton with higher moisture levels will not qualify for the Minimum Support Price (MSP), which could result in income losses for growers.

“Farmers must check moisture levels before selling. If it is above 12%, MSP cannot be provided,” the minister said.

Acknowledging the recent weather challenges, Tummala said the State Government has requested the Centre to allow procurement of cotton with slightly higher moisture. A formal letter has been sent to Union Agriculture Minister Giriraj Singh Chauhan. “We are doing everything possible to protect cotton farmers’ interests,” he added.

Meanwhile, the government has deployed special teams across districts to help farmers register and sell through the Kapas Kisan App. Agricultural extension officers and marketing officials will be present at procurement centers for on-ground support.

Farmers can also reach the Marketing Department’s toll-free helpline 1800 599 5779 for assistance or complaints.

The minister appealed to farmers to dry cotton properly before sale until further notification from the Centre on revised moisture norms.