Two Straight Bt Cotton Varieties of VNMKV recommended for High-Density Planting in Central India

The Cotton Research Station (CRS), Nanded of Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth (VNMKV), Parbhani, has achieved a significant milestone with the development of two straight Bt BG II cotton varieties - NH 22037 Bt BG II and NH 22038 Bt BG II. These are the first public sector Bt BG II straight varieties in India to be recommended for high density planting, especially under rainfed conditions.

The Central Variety Identification Committee (CVIC) of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), during its meeting held on June 19, 2025, approved these varieties for cultivation in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh - covering the Central India cotton-growing region. Being straight varieties, farmers can reuse their self-produced cotton seeds for the next two to three years, leading to savings on seed costs.

NH 22038 Bt BG II is a 160 to 170 days variety, yielding 18 to 19 quintals per hectare. This variety is suitable for high-density planting. Its fiber length is 29 to 30 mm, and its fiber strength is 28 to 29 gm/tex. The boll weight is 4.8 to 5.0 grams. This Bt variety is tolerant to sucking pests as well as bacterial blight and leaf spot diseases.

NH 22037 Bt BG II is also suitable for high-density planting, with a height of 90 to 95 cm. The fiber length of this variety is 29 to 30 mm, and its fiber strength and fineness are excellent. The boll weight is 4.5 to 4.7 grams. This Bt variety is tolerant to sucking pests, bacterial blight, and leaf spot diseases.

The research was carried out under the visionary leadership of Prof. Dr. Indra Mani, Hon’ble Vice Chancellor, with technical guidance from Dr. K.S. Baig, Director of Research. The development team includes Dr. K.S. Baig (Cotton Specialist), Dr. Vijaykumar Chinchane (Associate Breeder), Dr. Arun Gaikwad (Assistant Breeder), along with dedicated scientific and technical staff of CRS, Nanded. Hon. Prof. Dr. Indra Mani has extended hearty congratulations to the entire team for this impactful contribution to cotton research and farmer empowerment.