(i) How is frost harmful for the growth of cotton plant? Why is dry weather necessary at the time of harvesting cotton?

(ii) Why is the net sown area of the cotton crop declining?

(i) The cotton plant is extremely sensitive to frost and late spring or early autumn frosts can kill the plant and destroy the crop. The soil temperature below 20°C reduces root growth thus retarding plant growth.

Dry weather is necessary during boll-opening and harvesting because rainfall damages the open bolls and makes the crop more susceptible to pests and diseases.

(ii) The net sown area under cotton is declining due to low global demand, frequent pest attacks, low yields, poor returns, and erratic rainfall caused by climate change. As a result, many farmers are shifting to more profitable and less risky crops such as pulses and maize.