Mandatory Certification for Cotton Quality

February 23, 2023

The Minister of Textiles Shri Piyush Goyal recently headed the Textile Advisory Group meeting. During the meeting, the issues in the cotton value chain were discussed. After the discussion, the minister issued a Quality Control Order. The order reads that it is mandatory to certify cotton bales. This is being done to increase the supply of good-quality cotton in the country.

What is the plan?

The Textiles Ministry has formed Steering Committee and Apex Committee to work on the certification process.

Background

The TEXPROCIL and Cotton Corporation of India signed an agreement in 2022. According to the agreement, the brand “KASTURI COTTON” was to be promoted.

Need for the order

India produces one of the healthiest cottons in the world. There are four different cotton species in India. Indian cotton is infection free, non-allergic, durable, and breathable. Lately, the cotton quality in the country has been reducing due to extended monsoons. Because of delayed rains, the cotton lengths were reduced by 0.5 mm to 1 mm. To solve this issue, GoI introduced KASTURI COTTON and has been promoting among farmers to cultivate this brand. Now, the government wants the buyers to use high-quality cotton, preferably KASTURI COTTON. Though the order doesn’t mention the word KASTURI COTTON, the quality check provisions are to the standard of KASTURI COTTON.

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