Bt Cotton Seed Price Controversy in India

The recent decision by the Government of India to increase the prices of Bt cotton seeds has sparked controversy. This decision comes ahead of the Kharif season and has raised concerns among farmers and agricultural experts. Critics argue that the price hike is unjustified, given the declining yields and increasing pest infestations. The rise in seed prices has not been accompanied by a thorough assessment of the seeds’ performance or consultation with affected farmers.

Background of Bt Cotton

Bt cotton was introduced in India in 2002 as the first genetically modified crop. It was engineered for resistance against the American bollworm, a common pest. Over the years, however, farmers have reported increasing problems with pink bollworm infestations. These pests have adapted, leading to yield losses.

Recent Price Increases

On March 28, 2025, the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare announced new maximum sale prices for Bt cotton seeds. The price for a 475-gram packet of Bollgard I (BG-I) remains unchanged at Rs 635. However, the price for Bollgard II (BG-II) has risen by Rs 37, reaching Rs 901. Farmers prefer BG-II due to its perceived pest resistance.

Criticism of the Price Hike

Experts and farmers have voiced strong opposition to the price increase. They argue that the government has not conducted a comprehensive review of the seeds’ performance. Narasimha Reddy Donthi, a public policy expert, brought into light the lack of justification for the price rise, particularly given the poor yield data and increasing pest problems. He noted that the Cotton Seed Price (Control) Order of 2015 centralised pricing control and removed state governments’ oversight.

Declining Cotton Yields

Data from the Cotton Association of India shows a decline in cotton yields from 510.82 kg/hectare in 2014-15 to 436.99 kg/hectare in 2024-25. This decline has been attributed to increased pest infestations and adverse climate conditions. Farmers are facing higher production costs and rising debts due to these challenges.

Alternative Cotton Varieties

Some experts advocate for a shift towards native or desi cotton. This variety is noted for its lower water requirements and reduced dependency on agrochemicals. Rohit Parakh, a food and agriculture policy analyst, emphasised the ecological benefits of non-GM cotton and called for government support in promoting these alternatives.

Government Response

While seed companies describe the price increase as marginal, they argue it is necessary to cover rising production costs. The government has been urged to adopt a more transparent pricing mechanism that includes farmer consultations. Previous initiatives to promote desi cotton have seen limited success due to inadequate seed availability.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically discuss the impact of genetically modified crops on agricultural sustainability in India.
2. Examine the role of government policies in influencing cotton production and farmer livelihoods in India.
3. Analyse the effects of climate change on pest populations in agricultural systems.
4. Estimate the potential benefits and challenges of promoting native cotton varieties in India’s agricultural landscape.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically discuss the impact of genetically modified crops on agricultural sustainability in India.

1. Bt cotton was introduced to enhance pest resistance, but it has led to increased pest issues, notably pink bollworm.
2. Dependence on GM crops can reduce biodiversity and resilience in agricultural systems.
3. Rising production costs and declining yields challenge the economic viability of GM crops for farmers.
4. There are concerns about the long-term environmental impacts of GM crops, including soil health and pesticide use.
5. Alternatives like native cotton varieties may offer sustainable solutions with lower ecological footprints.

2. Examine the role of government policies in influencing cotton production and farmer livelihoods in India.

1. The Cotton Seed Price (Control) Order centralized pricing, limiting state government oversight and farmer input.
2. Recent price hikes of Bt cotton seeds have sparked criticism for lack of performance assessment and farmer consultation.
3. Government policies have historically favored GM crops, potentially neglecting traditional farming practices and crops.
4. Support for alternative crops, like desi cotton, has been limited, affecting farmers’ livelihoods and choices.
5. Policies need to balance technological advancement with sustainable practices and farmer welfare.

3. Analyse the effects of climate change on pest populations in agricultural systems.

1. Climate change alters temperature and rainfall patterns, leading to increased pest outbreaks and resilience.
2. Shifts in climate can disrupt natural pest control mechanisms, exacerbating infestations in crops like cotton.
3. Farmers face higher production costs due to increased pesticide usage in response to pest pressures.
4. Changing ecosystems and biodiversity loss can lead to the emergence of new pest species.
5. Adaptation strategies are crucial for mitigating the impacts of climate change on agricultural pests.

4. Estimate the potential benefits and challenges of promoting native cotton varieties in India’s agricultural landscape.

1. Native cotton varieties often require less water and are more resilient to local pests and diseases.
2. They can reduce dependency on agrochemicals, leading to lower production costs and environmental benefits.
3. Promotion of desi cotton can enhance biodiversity and support traditional farming practices.
4. Challenges include ensuring seed availability and farmer education on cultivation practices.
5. Market acceptance and economic viability compared to GM varieties need to be addressed for successful implementation.