Crisis in Indian Cotton Production and Exports

India’s cotton sector faces challenges as production declines and imports rise. The country’s cotton output for the 2024-25 marketing year is projected at over 294 lakh bales, the lowest since 2008-09. This decline is alarming, especially as India transitions from a major cotton exporter to a net importer. The pink bollworm pest is a primary cause of this crisis, leading to substantial yield losses and discolouration of cotton lint.

Cotton Production Trends

Indian cotton production peaked at 398 lakh bales in 2013-14. Since then, output has steadily declined. The current projection indicates a fall to below 300 lakh bales. This represents a catastrophic drop in production. The introduction of genetically modified (GM) cotton hybrids increased yields and exports between 2002 and 2014. However, recent years have seen exports dip while imports have surged.

Impact of Pink Bollworm

The pink bollworm is a monophagous pest that feeds exclusively on cotton. It has developed resistance to Bt cotton, which was initially effective against other pests. The pest’s rapid life cycle allows it to reproduce quickly, exacerbating the resistance problem. The economic threshold level for pest damage has been crossed in various regions since 2014, leading to reduced yields.

Genetic Modification and New Trials

To combat the pink bollworm, Indian seed companies are developing new GM cotton hybrids. These hybrids incorporate new genes believed to confer resistance to the pest. Trials for these new hybrids are underway, with companies like Bioseed and Rasi Seeds seeking regulatory approval for further testing. The Genetic Engineering Approval Committee (GEAC) is overseeing these trials to ensure safety and efficacy.

Regulatory Challenges

The process for approving new GM crops in India is lengthy and fraught with challenges. Regulatory hurdles and opposition from environmental groups have stalled the commercialisation of new GM cotton varieties since 2006. The government is urged to adopt a more proactive stance, especially given the urgency of the current crisis.

Government Initiatives

In response to the cotton crisis, the Government of India has launched a five-year ‘Mission for Cotton Productivity.’ This initiative aims to enhance cotton production through scientific and technological support. The aim is to ensure a steady supply of quality cotton for the textile industry, which is vital for the Indian economy.

Market Dynamics

Despite facing a 27% duty on cotton exports, India competes with countries like China and Vietnam, which have higher tariffs. The current situation presents both challenges and opportunities for Indian cotton exports. The government’s focus on improving cotton productivity may help regain lost ground in the international market.

Future Outlook

The future of Indian cotton production hinges on addressing the pink bollworm crisis and overcoming regulatory obstacles. The success of new GM hybrids will be crucial. The government’s commitment to supporting cotton farmers could lead to a resurgence in production and exports.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the impact of genetically modified crops on agricultural productivity in India.
2. What are the regulatory challenges faced by the introduction of genetically modified organisms in India? Explain.
3. Comment on the role of pests in agricultural production. How can integrated pest management strategies mitigate these challenges?
4. Explain the significance of cotton in the Indian economy. What measures can be taken to enhance its production?

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the impact of genetically modified crops on agricultural productivity in India.

1. GM crops have historically increased yields , as seen with cotton production rising from 136 lakh bales to 398 lakh bales between 2002-2014.
2. Post-2014, the effectiveness of GM crops has declined due to pest resistance, particularly with the pink bollworm affecting cotton yields.
3. While GM crops initially boosted exports, recent years have seen a decline in exports alongside rising imports, indicating a shift in productivity dynamics.
4. New GM hybrids are being developed to counteract pest resistance, but their success is contingent upon regulatory approvals and field trials.
5. Overall, the impact of GM crops on productivity in India is mixed, with potential benefits overshadowed by emerging challenges like pest resistance and regulatory delays.

2. What are the regulatory challenges faced by the introduction of genetically modified organisms in India? Explain.

1. The approval process for GM crops is lengthy, involving multiple stages of trials (event selection, BRL-1, BRL-2) before commercialization.
2. Opposition from environmental groups and public concerns about safety and ecological impact create barriers to approval.
3. State government concurrence is required for field trials, adding another layer of complexity and potential delays.
4. No new GM crops have been commercialized since 2006, denoting stagnation in the regulatory environment.
5. Regulatory bodies like the Genetic Engineering Approval Committee (GEAC) are cautious, which, while ensuring safety, can hinder timely advancements in agricultural technology.

3. Comment on the role of pests in agricultural production. How can integrated pest management strategies mitigate these challenges?

1. Pests, such as the pink bollworm, can cause yield losses and quality degradation, as seen in cotton production in India.
2. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) combines biological, cultural, physical, and chemical tools to manage pest populations sustainably.
3. IPM strategies can include crop rotation, the use of resistant varieties, and biological control agents to reduce reliance on chemical pesticides.
4. Monitoring pest populations and using economic thresholds can help farmers make informed decisions about when to intervene.
5. Implementing IPM can lead to reduced pest damage, improved crop yields, and decreased environmental impact, thus enhancing agricultural productivity.

4. Explain the significance of cotton in the Indian economy. What measures can be taken to enhance its production?

1. Cotton is important cash crop in India, supporting millions of farmers and contributing to the textile industry and exports.
2. The decline in cotton production poses risks to livelihoods, textile supply chains, and overall economic stability in rural areas.
3. Measures to enhance production include investing in research for pest-resistant GM hybrids, improving irrigation, and adopting sustainable farming practices.
4. Government initiatives like the ‘Mission for Cotton Productivity’ aim to provide technological support and improve cotton quality.
5. Strengthening market access and reducing export tariffs can also help boost competitiveness in the global market.