Sustainability is becoming central to cotton production, as farmers, manufacturers, and buyers recognise the need to balance output with environmental responsibility, shares Suketu Shah.

Cotton, often called “white gold,” is more than just a raw material; it is the backbone of

livelihoods for millions, especially in India, where smallholder farmers and textile workers alike rely on this versatile fibre for their income. Yet behind the soft fabric that clothes millions lies a complex web of production, trade, and policy challenges that need urgent attention.

Cotton in India: A national staple

India is the largest producer of cotton globally, contributing nearly 23 per cent of the world’s total output. In the 2023-24 marketing year, production was estimated at 26 million 480 lb. bales over 12.7 million hectare. Cotton is grown across diverse climates, from Punjab’s plains to Maharashtra’s semi-arid regions, and serves as a lifeline for more than 6 million farmers.

However, production has not been without its challenges. Weather fluctuations, pest infestations, and shifting farmer priorities have caused supply inconsistencies. As a result, India’s cotton imports are projected to double in 2024-25 to 3 million bales, up from 1.52 million bales the previous year. This growing reliance on imports highlights the urgency of stabilising domestic production.

Export performance: Promise and pressure

India’s textile and apparel exports continue to show resilience despite international headwinds. Cotton textile exports reached $11.68 billion in FY 2023-24, growing by roughly 6.7 per cent from the previous year. Yet the sector faces pressure from global tariffs and competition. The US, India’s largest garment export market, has imposed a 50 per cent tariff on some Indian garments, partly due to India’s oil imports from Russia. Indian exporters now compete with countries like Bangladesh and Vietnam, which benefit from lower tariffs and production costs.

Policy measures and industry response

To cushion the industry, the Indian government temporarily removed import duties on cotton between August 19 and September 30, 2025. Initiatives such as the Swadeshi Campaign aim to boost domestic demand for Indian textiles, handlooms, and handicrafts, targeting urban youth and Gen Z consumers.

Industry bodies are also pushing for long-term alignment of cotton production with export targets. Strategies include introducing drought-resistant cotton varieties, improving irrigation infrastructure, and promoting technology-driven farming practices. Such measures could ensure both self-reliance and competitiveness in the global market.

Sustainability: The next frontier

Sustainability is becoming central to cotton production, as farmers, manufacturers, and buyers recognise the need to balance output with environmental responsibility. Water- efficient methods like drip and sprinkler irrigation are increasingly used to conserve water, especially in states like Maharashtra and Gujarat, where cotton cultivation depends heavily on rainfall. Farmers are also adopting practices such as Integrated Pest Management and

organic fertilizers to reduce chemical use, maintain soil health, and access higher-value markets abroad.

Labour practices are another key aspect. Millions of workers, many women in rural areas, depend on the cotton and textile industry. Ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and the absence of child labour is critical for both ethical and business reasons, as global buyers increasingly insist on certified supply chains.

The theme for, “Cotton 2040: Technology, Climate & Competitiveness,” highlights the need for practical innovations, like climate-resilient seeds and data-driven farm management, that help farmers sustain production while meeting market demands responsibly.

Conclusion: A collective responsibility

Farmers, policymakers, textile manufacturers, and exporters must work in tandem to strengthen India’s cotton ecosystem. By investing in technology, promoting sustainable practices, and supporting domestic demand, India can weave a resilient and competitive

cotton industry that continues to provide livelihoods, fuels economic growth, and competes on the global stage. As the fibres of cotton unite, they symbolize both opportunity and responsibility, a reminder that growth and sustainability must go hand in hand.

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