FSII supports Textile Minister’s call to speed up approval process for Herbicide Tolerant Bt Cotton seed varieties
The recent request by Union Textile Minister Giriraj Singh to expedite the clearance process for herbicide-tolerant Bt cotton seed types has received the full backing of the Federation of Seed Industry of India (FSII). This declaration highlights the need for innovation to resurrect the cotton and textile industry, which is beset by issues such as pest infestations, degraded soil, and unpredictable weather patterns.
“Herbicide Tolerant Bt Cotton is a transformative technology that can significantly address critical challenges like weed management, enhance productivity, and improve farmers’ income,” said Ajai Rana, Chairman of FSII and CEO & MD of Savannah Seeds, complimenting the Minister’s emphasis on timely approvals. “Using this technology will help India achieve its goal of leading the world in textile production,” he added.
Since the introduction of Bt cotton, India’s cotton industry has grown impressively, with production increasing from 10 million bales in the early 2000s to approximately 40 million bales by FY 2014. But since FY 2015, a number of issues, including pest pressure and worries about the condition of the soil, have caused stagnation. Rana emphasised the need for innovation and said that India has to move fast to get back on track with its growth, particularly in light of its target of producing US $ 250 billion worth of textiles by 2030.
The seed variety’s clearance should be expedited, the FSII urged, stressing the value of a transparent and science-based regulatory procedure. According to Rana, “a proactive policy framework with strong collaboration between the government and private sectors is essential to ensure the cotton industry grows sustainably and protects the interests of stakeholders and farmers throughout the value chain.”
According to the FSII, the prompt licensing of herbicide-tolerant bt cotton will improve India’s cotton value chain, helping farmers and advancing the country’s goals for its long-term textile sector.
