ISLAMABAD: Cotton cultivation in Punjab has crossed the 3 million acres mark during the ongoing Kharif season of 2025–26, reaching 3.011 million acres, according to the Ministry of National Food Security and Research. This figure represents an increase compared to 2.940 million acres sown during the same period last year. Punjab has achieved more than 86% of its seasonal target of 3.5 million acres, reflecting a positive trend in the cultivation of this vital cash crop.
Government Support Boosts Cotton Sowing
The government has intensified its efforts to promote cotton farming by ensuring the timely availability of essential agricultural inputs, including certified seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides. These measures aim to support farmers in maximizing yield and meeting the growing demand for cotton. Last year, Punjab’s target was set slightly higher at 3.221 million acres, showing the ambitious plans to expand cultivation further.
Regional Performance and Targets
In North Punjab, which includes major agricultural hubs such as Sargodha, Faisalabad, Lahore, and Sahiwal, the sowing target was set at 400,000 acres for the current season, a significant increase from 317,000 acres last year. So far, farmers have cultivated 294,000 acres in this region, surpassing last year’s figure of 269,000 acres during the same period. This growth underscores the region’s crucial role in the province’s overall cotton production and its contribution to Pakistan’s textile industry.
