Hey guys, I am new to the world of cotton production and I have been doing my research on the popular varieties of cotton in India. I am planning to invest in this sector and I want to know the most commonly cultivated and profitable varieties of cotton in India. Any information regarding their yield, pest resistance and fiber quality would be of great help to me. Thanks in advance!

Hello everyone! I have been involved in cotton production for many years in India and I can share some insights about the popular varieties of cotton. From my experience, two varieties that have gained popularity in recent years are BT cotton and Shankar-6 cotton.
BT cotton is a genetically modified variety that has been engineered to produce a toxin that is toxic to bollworm pests. This variety has shown to significantly reduce the use of chemical pesticides while providing good fiber quality and yield. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the development of resistance to the toxin in pests.
Shankar-6 cotton, on the other hand, is a non-GMO variety that is known for its good fiber quality and yield. It is resistant to various pests and diseases, making it a popular choice for farmers. The fibers produced by Shankar-6 cotton are ideal for textile production as they are long and durable.
In summary, while Gossypium hirsutum and Gossypium arboreum remain popular choices in cotton farming, BT cotton and Shankar-6 cotton are two other varieties gaining traction in recent years due to their unique advantages. As with any crop, it's always important to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of each variety before making a decision.