Cotton Mission will be helpful in increasing the productivity of cotton
06-Feb-2025 03:11 PM
The announcement of the 'five-year mission for cotton productivity' in the Union General Budget for the financial year 2025-26 marks a significant step toward enhancing the cotton industry in India, particularly in regions like Ahmedabad. The mission focuses on improving cotton yield and quality while addressing issues like pest infestations, which can devastate crops.
Here are some key points about the mission:
Focus on Seed Development: The mission prioritizes the development of high-yielding, disease-resistant cotton seeds. This will make cotton farming more resilient to diseases and pests, such as pink bollworm and whitefly, which have been causing severe losses in certain states.
Technology and Innovation: There will be an emphasis on incorporating new technologies, including gene production (beyond transgenics), to develop superior seeds. This could lead to more efficient farming practices, better yields, and enhanced quality.
Collaboration and Research: The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the Central Cotton Research Institute will work in partnership with the Union Ministry of Agriculture to implement these measures, ensuring that scientific advancements are applied to real-world cotton farming challenges.
Financial Support: A significant allocation of Rs 500 crore for the year 2025-26 has been dedicated to this mission, which demonstrates the government's commitment to improving cotton production.
Addressing the Supply Gap: Currently, there is a supply gap of about 25 lakh bales in cotton production. This mission aims to close that gap by increasing production by 40-50 lakh bales over the next three years, ultimately reaching 400 lakh bales annually by the end of the five-year period.
Quality Improvements: Along with quantity, there is a strong focus on improving the quality of cotton, particularly the Extra Long Staple (ELS) cotton. The shortage of ELS cotton in India, despite high demand, has led to reliance on imports. By boosting domestic production, India can reduce its dependency on foreign cotton, improving both self-sufficiency and export potential.
This mission could significantly strengthen India’s cotton industry, not only meeting domestic demand but also enhancing its position in global cotton markets, while ensuring sustainability and resilience against pests and diseases.