Karnataka Findings

1. 77% of the farmers interviewed in the study reported Bollworm infestation in the Bt cotton plants.

2. A majority of the farmers reported an increase in pesticide costs in the case of Bt cotton . This was despite a fall in the number of sprays compared to the Non-Bt hybrids. This increase is cost was related to the nature of pesticides that were used by the farmers, which were more potent and expensive.

3. The total cost of fertilisers was higher in the case of Bt Cotton plants (Rs. 600-1200 higher) as compared to the Cotton hybrids.

4. Farmers reported an increase in the labour cost of Bt cotton as the cotton bolls are smaller in size, tightly packed and picking takes longer.

5. The yields for Bt Cotton and non- Bt hybrids were more or less the same, however in Raichur non Bt hybrids fared better

6. The market value for Bt Cotton is lower than non-Bt Cotton hybrids by Rs 200-800.This is because of the shorter staple fibers and the relatively dull colour of the cotton fiber.

7. In terms of economic viability it is clear that Bt Cotton is a much more expensive alternative for the farmers. Apart from the input costs such as pesticides, fertilizers, water that have been mentioned before, the Bt Cotton seed itself costs Rs 1600.00 / packet (each packet can plant 1 to 1and half acres). The cost of the non Bt Hybrid seed is about Rs 450.

Furthermore, the market value that the farmers are getting for Bt Cotton is far lower than for Non Bt hybrids.