As part of the Farmers FIRST Programme (FFP) of ICAR-CRIDA, organized an Awareness and demonstration on High-Density Planting System (HDPS) in cotton was successfully conducted on 8th May 2025 at FFP-adopted village Bakapur. The event was organized in collaboration with DAATTC, Tandur. Mr. T. Laxman, Program Coordinator from DAATTC, Tandur, who served as the resource person.

The farmers were sensitized about HDPS in cotton, a novel approach that enhances plant population per acre and boosts yield potential by 30–40%. Highlighted the spacing strategy of 90 x 15 cm, which can accommodate around 29,629 plants/acre compared to 4,938 in conventional systems.

Application of plant growth regulators (Mepiquat Chloride) was explained to manage excessive vegetative growth and synchronize boll maturity. Emphasis was placed on integrated nutrient management, use of FYM, and timely fertilizer application. Weed management strategies using Pendimethalin or Alachlor within 48 hours of sowing were explained. Economic and ecological benefits such as mechanized harvesting, reduced pest incidence, and scope for second cropping (green gram/black gram) post-cotton.

Dr. G. Nirmala, Principal Investigator (FFP), along with Dr. B. Sanjeeva Reddy, Co-PI had participated in the training program, Around 55 farmers from the village actively participated in the program.