Union Budget and Cotton Mission
Union Finance Minister announced a five-year mission aimed at enhancing productivity and sustainability in cotton farming, focusing on promoting extra-long staple (ELS) cotton varieties.
What is ELS Cotton?
- Classification: Cotton is categorized by fibre length into long, medium, or short staple.
- Gossypium hirsutum: About 96% of India's cotton is medium staple, with fibre lengths of 25 to 28.6 mm.
- ELS Varieties: Feature fibre lengths of 30 mm or more; primarily from Gossypium barbadense, known as Egyptian or Pima cotton.
- Global Growth: ELS cotton is mainly grown in China, Egypt, Australia, and Peru.
- Indian Growth: Limited cultivation in Maharashtra's Sangli district and Tamil Nadu's Coimbatore.
- Quality: ELS cotton fabric is of superior quality, often blended for top-tier fabrics.
Challenges in ELS Cotton Cultivation in India
- Market Reluctance: Farmers hesitant due to lower yields compared to medium staple cotton.
- Yield Comparison: Medium staple yields 10-12 quintals per acre; ELS yields 7-8 quintals.
- Market Linkages: Difficulty in marketing premium produce at premium prices.
Potential Impact of the Cotton Mission
- Scientific Support: Enhanced science and technology support for farmers.
- Technological Adoption: Emphasis on GM technology for improved yields.
- Pest Management: Discussion on allowing herbicide-resistant HtBT cotton.
- Global Yield Comparison: India's yield lags behind Brazil (20 quintals/acre) and China (15 quintals/acre).
- Improvement Strategies: Better seeds, agronomic advice, and technology adoption for ELS cotton growth.
