Top 10 Cotton Producing States in India with Latest Data (2024)
Cotton producing states in India play a major role in the nation's agriculture and textile economy. Understanding these key states, their rankings, and latest data is essential for students preparing for school board exams, UPSC, SSC, and other competitive tests. This topic also builds useful general knowledge about India's major crops and their regions.
| Rank | State | Cotton Output (Lakh Bales, 2024*) | National Share (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gujarat | 90.0 | 27% |
| 2 | Maharashtra | 86.0 | 25% |
| 3 | Telangana | 54.0 | 16% |
| 4 | Rajasthan | 29.0 | 9% |
| 5 | Madhya Pradesh | 22.0 | 7% |
| 6 | Karnataka | 17.5 | 5% |
| 7 | Haryana | 15.2 | 4% |
| 8 | Punjab | 12.0 | 3% |
| 9 | Andhra Pradesh | 8.5 | 2% |
| 10 | Tamil Nadu | 5.0 | 1% |
*2024 data (provisional, Ministry of Agriculture)
Cotton Producing States in India Map
A visual map of cotton producing states helps students remember relative locations and importance. The leading cotton states form the "Cotton Belt" across western and central India. For exam revision, focus on these zones:
- Western Zone: Gujarat, Maharashtra
- Central Zone: Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh
- Southern Zone: Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu
- Northern Zone: Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan
To practice, locate these states on India’s map or use Vedantu study diagrams for quick recall.
Top 10 Cotton Producing States in India (2024)
Gujarat is the largest cotton producing state in India, followed by Maharashtra and Telangana. The top 5 states together contribute over 80% of national output. This ranking is likely to be asked directly in MCQs, quizzes, and interviews.
Largest Cotton Producing State in India
Gujarat leads India in cotton production. The state has black soil and suitable climate, making it ideal for cotton cultivation. Key cotton districts are Rajkot, Surendranagar, Bhavnagar, and Junagadh.
- Output: 90 lakh bales (2024)
- Share: 27% of total national output
- Important for: Board exams, state PSCs, and interview questions
Factors Affecting Cotton Production in India
Cotton growth depends on various natural and human factors. Understanding these helps with higher-order questions in exams like UPSC and state services.
- Climate: High temperature (21°C–30°C) and moderate rainfall (60–100 cm)
- Soil: Black cotton soil (regur) is most suitable
- Irrigation: Needed in drier areas (canals, wells)
- Kharif Crop: Sown mainly in June–July, harvested by November–January
- Schemes: "Mission for Cotton Productivity" and other government support initiatives
Recent Trends and Updates (2023–2025)
Cotton production in India showed steady growth in 2023 and 2024 due to improved irrigation and government schemes. Some states adopted new hybrid seeds and drip irrigation, increasing their yields. Climate fluctuations affected some regions, leading to output variation.
- Gujarat remains No.1, Maharashtra close second
- PIB data shows small increase in Telangana’s output
- More farmers shifting to sustainable and organic practices
- Technology adoption helps control pests (Pink Bollworm)
Cotton Producing States vs. Other Major Crop States
Cotton producing states often overlap with regions growing other crops like sugarcane and jute, but rankings differ.
- Cotton States: Gujarat, Maharashtra, Telangana, Rajasthan
- Jute States: West Bengal (not a major cotton state)
- Sugarcane States: Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra
Remember: West Bengal is famous for jute, not cotton; Uttar Pradesh is a leader in sugarcane, not cotton.
For more on crops, see Farming in India.
How This Topic Helps Students
Knowing the cotton producing states is valuable for:
- Quick MCQ and one-liner questions in CBSE, ICSE, and state boards
- UPSC Prelims and Mains (Geography, Current Affairs)
- SSC, Railways, and state public service exams
- General knowledge quizzes and group discussions
At Vedantu, we simplify Social Science topics to make Geography easier for all learners. Explore related topics to connect with farming, soil, and climate.
- Introduction to Agriculture
- Red to Yellow Soil
- Indian Climate and Vegetation
- Size and Location of India
- Types of Resources
- Natural Vegetation of India
- Water Resources: An Introduction
- Introduction to Resources and Development
- What are Manufacturing Industries?
Revision & Exam Tips: Cotton Producing States in India
- Gujarat is always the largest cotton producing state—remember this for direct questions.
- Cotton is a Kharif crop, mainly grown in black soil regions.
- Top 3 states (Gujarat, Maharashtra, Telangana) cover most of India's cotton.
- Telangana has recently outpaced Andhra Pradesh in output.
- Don’t confuse jute and cotton producing states: West Bengal leads in jute, not cotton.
- Use maps and mnemonics (e.g., "GMTRM" – Gujarat, Maharashtra, Telangana, Rajasthan, MP) to memorize rankings.
In summary, knowing cotton producing states in India is crucial for exams and interviews. Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Telangana lead the rankings in 2024. Understanding state-wise trends, factors affecting cultivation, and recent updates will help you tackle geography questions confidently. For detailed learning, explore more Social Science topics at Vedantu.
FAQs on Cotton Producing States in India: State-wise List, Map & Facts
1. Which state is the largest producer of cotton in India?
Gujarat is typically the largest cotton-producing state in India. Its success is due to favorable climate, fertile soil, and extensive irrigation. However, rankings can shift slightly year-to-year.
2. What are the top 10 cotton producing states in India (2024)?
The top 10 cotton-producing states in India for 2024 are likely to include (the exact order may vary slightly based on final data): Gujarat, Maharashtra, Telangana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Haryana, Punjab, and Tamil Nadu. Always refer to the latest official agricultural statistics for precise rankings.
3. How does Gujarat maintain its lead in cotton production?
Gujarat's leading position in cotton production is a result of several factors: suitable climate, extensive irrigation systems, fertile soil, advanced agricultural practices, and a robust support system for cotton farmers. The state also has a well-developed textile industry, creating strong demand for locally grown cotton.
4. What is the rank of Madhya Pradesh in cotton production?
Madhya Pradesh typically ranks among the top 5-10 cotton-producing states in India. Its precise ranking fluctuates yearly depending on factors like rainfall and agricultural practices. For the most current ranking, consult the latest official data.
5. Which Indian states are showing rapid growth in cotton output?
While Gujarat consistently leads, several states exhibit fluctuating growth. Recent data should be checked for the most accurate information, but some states that sometimes show rapid growth include Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
6. What are the top 5 cotton producing states in India?
The top 5 cotton-producing states usually include Gujarat, Maharashtra, Telangana, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. However, the precise order and exact production figures can vary annually.
7. What is the rank of cotton in India?
Cotton is a major cash crop and one of the most important agricultural products in India, contributing significantly to the country's textile industry and economy.
8. Which state produces the most cotton in India in 2024?
While the exact figures vary, Gujarat is generally considered the leading state in cotton production, although final 2024 data would need to be consulted for precise confirmation.
9. What factors affect cotton production in India?
Several factors influence India's cotton production, including climate (rainfall, temperature), soil type, irrigation, agricultural practices, and government policies. Changes in any of these can affect output.
10. How does climate change affect India’s cotton-producing regions?
Climate change poses a significant threat to India's cotton production. Erratic rainfall patterns, rising temperatures, and increased pest infestations can severely impact yields and quality. Adapting to these changes is crucial for maintaining cotton production.
