Maharashtra Procures Over 106 Lakh Quintals of Cotton at MSP, Minister Addresses Concerns

Maharashtra's Minister Jaykumar Rawal stated that over 106.99 lakh quintals of cotton worth Rs 8,497 crore were procured at the Minimum Support Price (MSP) from more than 5 lakh farmers by February 16, 2026. Procurement is managed by the Cotton Corporation of India through 168 centres, with 7.20 lakh farmers registered on the 'Kapas Kisan' app. The minister denied allegations of technical glitches, malpractice, or exploitation, affirming that only cotton meeting government quality standards is purchased. He also dismissed claims that the removal of an 11% import duty caused farmer losses.