The May output of cotton crop is estimated at 382.75 lakh bales for the 2014-15 season (beginning from October 1, 2014), as per data compiled by the Cotton Association of India (CAI). The total cotton crop stood at 407.25 lakh bales (of 170 kg each) during 2013-14. The estimates have been lowered due to untimely rain in the Central Zone that has affected the output.
The states of Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh are included in the central zone. Total crop in the central region in May is estimated at 204.50 lakh bales, compared to 235.75 lakh bales last year.
The projected balance sheet drawn by the CAI for 2014-15 estimates total cotton supply at 453.65 lakh bales while domestic consumption is estimated at 310 lakh bales, thus leaving an available surplus of 143.65 lakh bales.