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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