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In the Union Budget 2025–26, the Union Finance Minister announced a five-year Cotton Mission to boost productivity, sustainability, and promotion of Extra-Long Staple (ELS) cotton in India, aiming to reduce import dependency and strengthen the high-end textile sector.

What is Extra-Long Staple (ELS) Cotton?

• Definition: ELS cotton refers to cotton varieties with fibre lengths of 30 mm or more, renowned for their superior softness, strength, durability, and premium quality.
• Botanical Origin: Derived primarily from the species Gossypium barbadense, commonly known as Egyptian or Pima cotton.

Distinguishing Cotton Types by Fibre Length

Type                      Fibre Length        Species                          Quality                 Uses                Yield per Acre   

Short Staple             < 25 mm             Gossypium hirsutum      Coarser         Low-cost textiles        High

Medium Staple       25–28.6 mm         Gossypium hirsutum     Moderate       Everyday fabrics       10–12 quintals

Extra-Long          30 mm & above   Gossypium barbadense  Superior     Luxury textiles        7–8 quintals

Staple (ELS)

Special Characteristics of ELS Cotton

• Softer & Smoother: Ideal for premium, luxury clothing.
• Stronger & More Durable: Resistant to wear and tear.
• Resistant to Pilling: Maintains smoothness over time.
• Luxurious Finish: Produces fine yarns with a natural sheen.
• Minimal Finishing Required: Retains natural texture and quality.

Global and Indian Production Landscape

• Origin: Native to South America.
• Globally Grown In:
  • Egypt, China, Australia, Peru – leading producers.
• In India:
  • Cultivated in Atpadi Taluka (Sangli, Maharashtra), around Coimbatore (Tamil Nadu), and in parts of Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh.
  • Grown mostly in rain-fed areas with warm climates and fertile soil, aiding fibre quality.

Challenges in ELS Cotton Cultivation in India

• Low Yield: ELS cotton yields 7–8 quintals/acre, significantly lower than medium staple varieties (10–12 quintals/acre).
• Market Linkage Deficit: Farmers struggle to fetch premium prices for ELS cotton due to weak market access and lack of dedicated procurement infrastructure.
• Technological Gaps: Limited access to improved seed varieties, agronomic practices, and technologies like HtBT (Herbicide-tolerant Bt) cotton.
• Import Dependency: India imports 20–25 lakh bales annually, accounting for ~90% of its ELS cotton requirements, to meet demand from the premium textile industry.

Significance of the Five-Year Cotton Mission

• Aimed at:
  • Enhancing productivity and sustainability of ELS cotton.
  • Reducing import dependence through indigenous development.
  • Strengthening high-value textile exports by ensuring reliable ELS supply.
• Supports:
  • Farmer income enhancement through value-added cultivation.
  • Research and development in ELS cotton seed technology.
  • Improved extension services, supply chain development, and market support mechanisms.