The decline of cotton cultivation in India reflects a systemic failure at the intersection of agricultural biotechnology governance, MSP implementation, and climate adaptation policy. Critically examine the causes and consequences of this agrarian crisis and suggest a comprehensive policy response.

Question

PocketIAS · Accepted Answer

Introduction

The stagnation/decline of cotton cultivation in parts of India (e.g., Punjab–Haryana, Maharashtra, Telangana) signals a systemic failure spanning biotechnology governance, MSP/market support, and climate adaptation.

Causes of the Crisis

Biotechnology Governance Gaps

Over-reliance on Bt cotton (single-trait); delayed approval of next-gen traits (HT, stacked traits)
Rising pest resistance (pink bollworm) and secondary pests; weak stewardship and seed regulation MSP and Market Failures
MSP not effectively operationalised; limited procurement by CCI in many regions
Price volatility linked to global markets and imports, hurting farm incomes Rising Input Costs & Indebtedness
High costs of seeds, pesticides, fertilisers with unstable yields Climate Vulnerability
Cotton’s water sensitivity; erratic monsoons, heat stress, and pest outbreaks Extension and Institutional Deficits
Weak agronomic advisories, inadequate IPM promotion, and poor last-mile delivery Regional Cropping Constraints
In north India, water stress and policy shifts (paddy replacement) complicate cotton viability

Consequences

Income Instability and Distress among smallholders; crop switching or exit
Ecological Stress due to pesticide overuse and soil degradation
Industrial Impact on the textile value chain and export competitiveness
Regional Imbalances and increased vulnerability in rainfed regions

Comprehensive Policy Response

Reform Biotechnology Policy

Fast-track science-based approvals for improved traits; strengthen biosafety and resistance management
Promote public sector breeding and seed diversity

Strengthen MSP & Market Architecture

Ensure effective MSP operations via CCI; expand price deficiency payments
Improve market intelligence, hedging tools, and reduce policy-induced volatility

Climate-resilient Agriculture

Promote drought/heat-tolerant varieties, micro-irrigation, and climate advisories
Encourage crop diversification in unsuitable regions

Cost and Risk Management

Scale IPM, bio-inputs, and rational pesticide use; expand crop insurance (PMFBY) effectiveness

Extension & Institutional Strengthening

Revamp extension services, digital advisories, and farmer producer organisations (FPOs)

Value Chain Support

Invest in ginneries, storage, and quality standardisation to improve farmer realisation

Conclusion

Reviving cotton requires an integrated approach aligning biotechnology, price support, and climate resilience, ensuring sustainable farmer incomes and stability of India’s textile economy.

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