Author: Anna Tsurkanova
Mentor: Ainur Koskina
Cotton is a strategic crop for the Turkistan region, but for many farmers, it has long ceased to be a stable source of income. Stop planting it? Not an option — too many people and resources are tied to the "white gold." However, there is a solution!
A journalist from Vera.kz in Shymkent conducted an extensive investigation to find out how to turn cotton growing into a profitable business. She travelled to the southern regions of Kazakhstan, studying both successful and struggling farms to identify effective solutions, and spoke with government representatives to learn about the future prospects for cotton farming.
In the article, you will learn:
- Why can't cotton simply be abandoned? About the social and economic consequences for the region.
- Which scientific developments can help improve cotton yields and quality?
- What role should the government play in supporting the industry? An analysis of current subsidies and necessary legislative changes.
- What can farmers do themselves to increase their profits? Expert advice on seed selection and the use of advanced technologies.
*The original article is written in Russian
Read the full material, prepared by a project resident, by following this link: https://vera.kz/kak-prevratit-beloe-zoloto-v-sredstvo-zarabotka-dlya-agrariev/