The Cotton Textiles Export Promotion Council has announced a concerning decrease in cotton yarn exports, experiencing a 44% drop in July of 2019 when compared to the same month in the previous year. As a result, cotton yarn exports have reached their lowest level in five years, impacting India’s standing in the global textile and clothing markets. Once the second-largest exporter of textile and clothing between 2014-2017, India has fallen to the fifth position as of 2019.
Cotton Cultivation in India
Believed to be the original home of the cotton plant, India utilises cotton as one of the main raw materials for its cotton textile industry. The black cotton soil of the Deccan plateau, particularly in its drier areas, is ideal for cotton growth.
Recognized as a Kharif crop, cotton cultivation begins with the onset of monsoon and harvesting typically takes place during September and October. This crop requires approximately six to eight months to reach maturity. Key cotton-producing states include Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.
Conditions for Cotton Cultivation
Successful cotton cultivation depends on several environmental conditions, starting with temperature. With an annual requirement of 20°-28°C, cotton grows best in tropical and sub-tropical climates with humid conditions. An equitable distribution of temperature and ample sunshine is also desirable.
Rainfall plays a crucial role with an ideal annual measure of 55-100 cm, although rainfall during the harvesting period can prove damaging. In terms of frost-free days, a minimum of 180 is required for cotton cultivation, with 200 frost-free days being preferable.
Soil type contributes significantly to the cultivation of cotton, where fertile, saline soil with high water-retention capacity proves optimal. Specifically, loamy soil enriched with high calcium carbonate is best for cotton cultivation. Additionally, a slight slope in the terrain can be beneficial, as it aids in the drainage of the soil.
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 20°-28°C annually, equitable distribution, ample sunshine |
| Rainfall | 55-100 cm annually, not during harvest |
| Frost-free days | A minimum of 180, preferably 200 |
| Soil | Fertile, saline with high water-retention and a high calcium carbonate concentration |
| Relief | Slight slope for good drainage |
Change in Global Standing
The decline in exports has had a significant impact on India’s role in the global textiles market. In just a few years, India has seen a drastic slide from its position as the second-largest textile and clothing exporter to being ranked fifth in 2019.
