India Launches Mission to Boost ELS Cotton Production

Why in the news?

The Union Finance Minister announced a five-year mission to enhance the productivity, sustainability, and promotion of Extra Long Staple (ELS) cotton, aiming to strengthen India’s textile sector and reduce reliance on imports.

India Launches Mission to Boost ELS Cotton Production

Mission Objectives:

  • The Union Finance Minister has launched a five-year mission to enhance productivity and promote Extra Long Staple (ELS) cotton in India.
  • The initiative aims to improve sustainability in cotton farming and boost the textile sector.
  • ELS cotton is recognized globally for its superior fibre length, strength, and finesse, making it ideal for high-quality textile production.

Key Features of ELS Cotton:

  • Derived from Gossypium barbadense, commonly known as Egyptian or Pima cotton.
  • Fibres measure 30 mm or more, producing luxurious fabrics.
  • ELS cotton is primarily cultivated in China, Egypt, Australia, and Peru.
  • In India, small-scale cultivation exists in Maharashtra’s Sangli district (Atpadi taluka) and Tamil Nadu near Coimbatore.
  • Requires a warm climate and fertile soil for uniform fibre growth.

Challenges and Way Forward:

  • India faces low per-acre yields (7-8 quintals) compared to global producers.
  • Limited cultivation area restricts production, impacting the textile industry’s competitiveness.
  • The mission seeks to encourage large-scale cultivation and improved farming practices.
  • Emphasis on research, sustainable farming techniques, and quality enhancement is crucial.
  • Strengthening the ELS cotton supply chain will support India’s positioning as a key player in the global textile market.

Extra Long Staple (ELS) Cotton:

  • Fibers exceed 34.925 mm (1 3/8 inches), making them longer than regular cotton.
  • Known for softness, strength, and uniformity, used in luxury textiles and medical products.
  • Cotton Cultivation in India:
  • Grown during the kharif season; thrives in 21°C to 30°C with 50-75 cm rainfall.
  • Grows in black clay, alluvial, and red soils, requires well-drained conditions.
  • Top Zones: Central (Gujarat, Maharashtra), Southern (Telangana), and Northern (Punjab).

Government Initiatives:

  • PM MITRA: Develops world-class textile parks.
  • PLI Scheme: Boosts domestic textile manufacturing.
  • Kasturi Cotton Bharat: Promotes sustainable cultivation.
  • NTTM: Focuses on technical textiles development.
  • ATUFS: Supports technology upgrades.