White Gold: India’s Cotton Story

Cotton Species in India

  • India is the only country cultivating all four recognised cotton species:
    • G. Arboreum (Asian cotton)
    • G. Herbaceum (Asian cotton)
    • G. Barbadense (Egyptian cotton)
    • G. Hirsutum (American upland cotton)
  • G. Hirsutum accounts for nearly 90% of hybrid cotton production.
  • All Bt cotton hybrids cultivated in India belong to G. Hirsutum.

Economic Significance

  • Cotton is a key commercial crop, linking agriculture, industry, trade and exports.
  • Contributes around 23% of global fibre production.
  • Supports nearly 6 million farmers.
  • Provides employment to 40–50 million people in processing, textiles, transport and trade.

Geographical Distribution

  • Cotton cultivation is concentrated in 9 major states across 3 agro-climatic zones:
    • Northern Zone: Punjab, Haryana, ....
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