BT cotton is a genetically modified type of cotton that has been engineered to produce a toxin to fend off bollworm infestations. The use of BT cotton has helped increase crop productivity and lower pesticide use. However, there are still a wide variety of BT cotton varieties available, each with their own characteristics and benefits. Here are some recommended BT cotton varieties:
1. JKCH 1947: This variety of BT cotton is known for having high yield potential and insect resistance, particularly against the pink bollworm. It also has good fiber quality and is suitable for different growing conditions, making it a versatile option for farmers.
2. RCH 134 Bt: RCH 134 Bt is another popular BT cotton variety that has good resistance to bollworms and is known for producing high-quality fiber. It is tolerant to drought and heat stress, making it a good choice for areas that have variable weather conditions.
3. JKC 737 Bt: JKC 737 Bt is a newer variety of BT cotton that has been gaining popularity in recent years. It is resistant to both bollworm and whitefly infestations and has good drought tolerance. It is also known for producing high yields and good fiber quality.
4. NCS 138 Bt: This variety of BT cotton is resistant to bollworm and has good fiber quality, making it a popular option for farmers. It also has good tolerance to drought and heat stress, making it suitable for areas with erratic weather patterns.
5. JKC 703 Bt: JKC 703 Bt is another newer variety of BT cotton that has been gaining popularity. It is resistant to both bollworm and whitefly infestations and has good tolerance to drought and heat stress. It also produces good-quality fiber and has high yield potential.
6. Ankur 2534 Bt: Ankur 2534 Bt is a high-yielding variety of BT cotton that is resistant to bollworm and has good fiber quality. It is also known for having good tolerance to drought and heat stress, making it suitable for areas with variable weather patterns.
In conclusion, there are a wide variety of BT cotton varieties available to farmers, each with their own set of benefits and characteristics. Ultimately, the best variety will depend on the specific growing conditions and needs of each farmer. By choosing the right variety, however, farmers can increase their chances of having a successful cotton crop that is both resistant to pests and commercially viable.