Indian Government Initiatives for Cotton Sector Development

12 Aug 2023 Indian Government Initiatives for Cotton Sector Development

This article covers “Daily Current Affairs” and the topic details “Indian Government Initiatives for Cotton Sector Development”. The topic “Indian Government Initiatives for Cotton Sector Development” has relevance in the Agriculture section of the UPSC CSE exam.

For Prelims:

Key Facts about Cotton?

For Mains:

GS 3: Agriculture

Prominent challenges encountered by the cotton sector in India?

Government Initiatives for Cotton Sector Development?

Why in the news:

The Minister of State for the Ministry of Textiles recently emphasized the notable progress made in empowering cotton farmers and advancing the growth of the cotton sector.

Key Facts about Cotton:

• Cotton is a Kharif crop that typically requires 6 to 8 months for maturity.
• It is highly adaptable to arid climates and is known for its drought resistance.
• Cotton cultivation occupies approximately 2.1% of the world’s arable land and caters to around 27% of the global textiles demand.
• The crop thrives in temperatures ranging from 21 to 30 degrees Celsius.
• It requires a rainfall range of about 50 to 100 cm for optimal growth.
• Cotton prefers well-drained black cotton soil, known as Regur Soil, as found in the Deccan Plateau.
• The products derived from cotton include fiber, oil, and animal feed.
• India is a leading cotton producer globally, followed by China and the USA.
• Gujarat holds the distinction of being the top cotton-producing state in India, followed by Maharashtra, Telangana, Rajasthan, and Andhra Pradesh.
• Cotton is represented by four primary cultivated species: Gossypium arboreum, G. herbaceum, G. hirsutum, and G. barbadense.
• Gossypium arboreum and G. herbaceum are known as old-world cotton or Asiatic cotton.
• G. hirsutum is also known as American cotton or upland cotton, while G. barbadense is referred to as Egyptian cotton; these are both new world cotton species.

The prominent challenges encountered by the cotton sector in India can be outlined as follows:

• Insect Infestation and Quality Reduction: India’s cotton fields are susceptible to insect attacks, leading to decreased output and compromised quality. Factors such as monoculture, inadequate pest control, unfavorable weather conditions, and poor soil quality contribute to pest infestations in cotton crops.
• Low Productivity per Hectare: India’s cotton productivity per hectare is lower compared to other major cotton-producing countries. Outdated agricultural practices, insufficient irrigation systems, and substandard seed quality contribute to this issue.
• Financial Struggles of Small-scale Farmers: Small-scale cotton farmers in India face financial challenges due to the high costs of essential inputs like seeds, fertilizers, and insecticides. The economic burden can hinder their profitability and sustainability.
• Dependence on Monsoon Rains: The success of India’s cotton crop heavily relies on the monsoon rains. Inconsistent and unpredictable monsoon patterns can disrupt crop growth and impact overall yield.
• Debt and Poverty Cycle: Many cotton farmers in India are burdened with debts, creating a cycle of indebtedness and poverty. Difficulties in repaying loans and financial obligations can perpetuate the cycle of economic hardship.
• Limited Access to Markets: A significant challenge faced by Indian cotton producers is the lack of direct access to markets. Many farmers are compelled to sell their produce to intermediaries at unfavorable rates due to limited market access.

Government Initiatives for Cotton Sector Development:

Cotton Development Programme under National Food Security Mission (NFSM):

• The Cotton Development Programme is a significant initiative launched by the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.
• It is operational in 15 major cotton-growing states across India, including states like Assam, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, etc.
• The primary objective of this program is to enhance cotton production and productivity within these major cotton-growing states.
• The initiative involves practical demonstrations, field trials, distribution of essential plant protection chemicals, and comprehensive training to farmers.

MSP Formula for Cotton:

• The Minimum Support Price (MSP) for cotton has been revamped with the introduction of a new formula.
• This formula is based on ensuring a price that is 1.5 times the cost of production (A2+FL).
• The implementation of this formula is aimed at securing the economic interests of cotton farmers while also ensuring a steady supply of cotton for the textile industry.
• The formula-driven MSP rates are increased periodically to provide better income support to the farmers.
• For the cotton season 2022-23, the MSP of Fair Average Quality (FAQ) grade cotton witnessed a rise of about 6%, and for the ensuing cotton season 2023-24, it is set to be further increased by 9% to 10%.

Cotton Corporation of India (CCI):

• The Cotton Corporation of India (CCI) plays a pivotal role as the Central Nodal agency for MSP operations.
• Its function becomes particularly crucial when the market prices of Fair Average Quality (FAQ) grade seed cotton (kapas) fall below the MSP rates.
• This mechanism protects the interests of farmers from potential distress sales and ensures a fair pricing mechanism for cotton.

Branding and Traceability:

• A notable step towards the betterment of the cotton sector is the introduction of “Kasturi Cotton.”
• Kasturi Cotton is a brand aimed at promoting Indian cotton with a distinct identity.
• This initiative is not only about branding but also emphasizes quality assurance, traceability, and creating a recognizable identity for Indian cotton in the global market.

Large-Scale Demonstrations Project:

• The Indian Government, through the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, has sanctioned a Large-Scale Demonstrations Project.
• This project is part of the broader National Food Security Mission (NFSM).
• It focuses on advocating and showcasing best practices to enhance cotton productivity among farmers.
• The project incorporates innovative techniques like the High Density Planting System (HDPS) and a value chain approach.

Textile Advisory Group (TAG):

• The Ministry of Textiles has taken an important step by establishing the Textile Advisory Group (TAG).
• TAG acts as a platform for fostering coordination among the stakeholders within the cotton value chain.
• The group addresses a wide range of issues, including productivity enhancement, pricing mechanisms, branding strategies, and more.

Cott-Ally Mobile App:

• To empower cotton farmers with knowledge and information, the Cott-Ally Mobile App has been developed.
• The app provides a user-friendly interface through which farmers can access vital information.
• It includes features such as MSP rate awareness, details about the nearest procurement centers, payment tracking, and guidance on best farming practices.

Committee on Cotton Promotion and Consumption (COCPC):

• The Committee on Cotton Promotion and Consumption (COCPC) plays a vital role in shaping the cotton sector’s development.
• It ensures the consistent availability of cotton to the textile industry by actively monitoring the cotton scenario.
• The committee advises the government on crucial matters related to cotton production and consumption.

SOURCE:https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1947170

Q.1 The formation of India’s black cotton soil can be attributed to the weathering of which of the following substances?

(a) Organic Matter

(b) Fissure volcanic rock

(c) Granite and schist

(d) Shale and limestone

Answer:(b)

Q.2 Consider the following statements regarding cotton in India:

1. Cotton is a Kharif crop that typically requires 6 to 8 months for maturity.
2. The crop thrives in temperatures ranging from 21 to 30 degrees Celsius.
3. The top cotton-producing state in India is Madhya Pradesh
4. Cotton requires a rainfall range of about 150 to 200 cm for optimal growth. 

How many of the above pairs are correctly matched? 

(a) Only one 

(b) Only two 

(c) Only three 

(d) All four

Answer:(b)

Q.3 Discuss the key challenges confronting the cotton sector in India. Suggest policy measures and strategies that could address these challenges and promote the sustainable growth of the cotton industry in India.

rishabh