Cotton Industry Challenges in India

March 4, 2025

In recent years, the cotton industry in North India has faced challenges. The emergence of whiteflies and pink bollworms has drastically reduced cotton yields and cultivation areas. In Punjab, cotton was grown on merely one lakh hectares in 2024, a stark decline from eight lakh hectares three decades earlier. This reduction has severely impacted the ginning industry, with operational ginning units in Punjab plummeting from 422 in 2004 to just 22. Farmers are increasingly advocating for the approval of Bollgard-3, a genetically modified cotton variety that promises pest resistance.

Genetic Modification in Cotton

Bollgard-3 is a genetically modified cotton developed by Monsanto.
It features three Bt proteins—Cry1Ac, Cry2Ab, and Vip3A. These proteins disrupt the gut function of pests, leading to their death. This technology aims to enhance cotton growth and yield.
Previous versions, Bollgard-1 and Bollgard-2, were introduced in India in 2002 and 2006, respectively. However, they are ineffective against the current pest threats.
Bollgard-3 is specifically designed to combat lepidopteran pests like the pink bollworm, which has become prevalent in Punjab.

Current Alternatives and Regulatory Challenges

Although Bollgard-3 is not yet available in India, Bollgard-2 Roundup Ready Flex (BG-2RRF) is closer to regulatory approval. BG-2RRF is designed to be herbicide tolerant, allowing farmers to control weeds without harming the cotton crop. Trials for BG-2RRF were conducted in India in 2012-13, but commercial use is still pending government approval. Delays in regulatory processes have hindered the introduction of this promising technology.

Impact of Pest Management Practices

Farmers are encouraged to adopt agronomic practices to improve cotton yields. Techniques such as proper seeding, mulching, high-density planting, and drip fertigation can optimise resources. However, pest management remains challenge. Experts highlight that without high-yielding, pest-resistant varieties like Bollgard-3, the future of Punjab’s cotton industry is uncertain.

Global Comparisons and Economic Viability

Countries like Brazil are advancing in cotton production by utilising more sophisticated technologies. Brazil’s Bollgard-5 variety offers protection against multiple pests and yields higher—2400 kg per hectare compared to India’s 450 kg. The economic implications are stark; Indian farmers face a profit margin of only 15% under optimal conditions, while Brazilian farmers enjoy margins of 85%. This disparity puts stress on the urgent need for India to embrace advanced agricultural technologies.

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