Cotton is the world’s most widely used natural fibre, derived from the seed coat of cotton plants in the genus Gossypium. The fibres grow in protective casings called bolls and are processed into yarn or thread to make soft, breathable textiles. Cotton has been cultivated for thousands of years and remains a crucial crop across the globe, particularly in India.
Importance of Cotton
Global Significance: Cotton is a major agricultural commodity essential for the textile industry. It is grown in over 80 countries, including the United States, China, India, Pakistan, Brazil, and Uzbekistan. It is used to produce a wide range of fabrics, from lightweight voiles to heavy sailcloths, and can be treated to enhance durability and resistance to wrinkles and stains. Besides textiles, cottonseed oil is used in cooking, and cottonseed meal serves as livestock feed.
India’s Cotton Industry: India is one of the leading cotton producers, contributing around 25% of the global cotton production. The crop is termed “White Gold” due to its economic importance. Cotton cultivation in India supports approximately 6 million farmers and employs 40-50 million people in related industries, such as processing and trading.
Geographical Distribution: India cultivates cotton across three major zones:
- Northern Zone: Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan
- Central Zone: Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh
- Southern Zone: Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu
Additionally, cotton farming is expanding in states like Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Tripura.
Types of Cotton: The evolutionary lineage of cotton is well-documented, classified into eight diploid genome groups (A-G and K) and a monophyletic allotetraploid group (AD). India is unique in growing all four major commercial species of cultivated cotton, namely:
- Gossypium arboreum and G. herbaceum (Asian cotton)
- G. hirsutum (American Upland cotton)
- G. barbadense (Egyptian cotton)
Among these, G. hirsutum, commonly known as Upland cotton, dominates global textile crop production, accounting for approximately 90% of commercial cotton output.
Cultivation and Processing: Cotton thrives in warm, sunny climates with well-drained soils. The fibres undergo several stages of development, from initiation to maturation. Upland cotton (G. hirsutum) is the most widely grown, accounting for 90% of global production. Cotton plants produce fibre and cottonseed oil and meal, which are valuable by-products.
Economic Impact: Cotton is a significant source of income and employment in India. It plays a crucial role in the textile industry, which is a major contributor to the country’s foreign exchange earnings by exporting raw cotton, yarn, fabrics, garments, and other products. The Indian textile industry uses a diverse range of fibres, with cotton constituting 60% of the consumption.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite its importance, cotton production faces challenges such as declining yields and the need for sustainable farming practices. Innovations in cotton cultivation and processing, as well as government support, are essential to maintain and enhance the productivity and profitability of this vital crop. Cotton remains an indispensable natural fibre, underpinning the global textile industry and the livelihoods of millions of farmers and workers, particularly in India. Its continued cultivation and improvement are crucial for economic and social development.