India’s Cotton Sector
Why in News?
Cotton is one of India’s most important commercial crops, forming a crucial part of agriculture, industry, trade and exports. Its significance extends beyond farming, supporting rural livelihoods, employment and the textile value chain.
Historical Overview: From Swadeshi to Atmanirbhar Bharat
- Ancient Legacy: India has been linked to cotton and textiles for thousands of years. Cotton cloth was exported to markets in the East and Europe.
- Modern Industry: With mills in Kolkata, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad (the “Manchester of India”), the cotton textile industry took shape in the 19th century.
- Swadeshi and Wartime Expansion: Demand during the World Wars accelerated growth, while the Swadeshi Movement promoted domestic mills and reduced reliance on British imports.
Bt Cotton in India
- What is Bt Cotton? A genetically modified crop containing genes from Bacillus thuringiensis that resist bollworm infestation.
- Commercial Introduction: Introduced in 2002, Bt cotton reduced bollworm attacks and insecticide usage.
- Impact: Higher yields and lower pest-control costs improved farm incomes and sustainability.
Kapas Kisan App
A digital platform designed to make cotton procurement under MSP more transparent and farmer-friendly.
Key Features:
- Self-registration and advance slot booking
- Aadhaar-linked payments
- Real-time SMS updates at procurement centres
Impact: Over 41 lakh registered farmers have benefited, improving transparency, efficiency, and ease of cotton procurement.
Environmental and Economic Significance
- Supports rural livelihoods and employment
- Reduces pesticide usage with Bt cotton
- Strengthens India’s textile and export sector
- Promotes digitalisation and efficiency in MSP procurement
Conclusion
India’s Cotton Sector-FAQs Answered
Why is India’s cotton sector important?
Cotton is a key commercial crop that supports agriculture, rural livelihoods, employment, the textile value chain, trade, and exports in India.
What is Bt Cotton?
Bt cotton is a genetically modified crop containing genes from Bacillus thuringiensis, which provides resistance to bollworms and reduces pesticide use.
When was Bt Cotton introduced in India and what is its impact?
Bt cotton was commercially introduced in 2002. It has reduced bollworm infestation, decreased insecticide use, and increased farm incomes due to higher yields and lower pest-control costs.
What is the Kapas Kisan App?
The Kapas Kisan App is a digital platform for MSP cotton procurement, enabling self-registration, slot booking, Aadhaar-linked payments, and real-time SMS updates for farmers.
How has the Kapas Kisan App impacted farmers?
With over 41 lakh registered farmers, the app has improved transparency, efficiency, and ease of cotton procurement at government-run centres.
