Compiled by Salil Chawla, Director, DFU Publications
Delivering the keynote address at the 4th Global Cotton Conference held yesterday in New Delhi, Ms. Padmini Singla, IAS, Joint Secretary (Fibre) Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, conveyed a powerful message on the future of India’s cotton sector, coinciding with the celebration of World Cotton Day.
Respected Secretary Ma’am, distinguished dignitaries, esteemed delegates, and valued members of the cotton and textile fraternity,
A warm welcome to all on the occasion of World Cotton Day 2025. It is indeed an honour to host the 4th World Cotton Conference, organized with the support of CITI and the Ministry of Textiles.
Over the past sessions, we have deliberated on vital themes—cotton certification, sustainability, traceability, evolving trends in cotton farming, trading, and risk management—while reaffirming the global importance of Indian cotton. The collective goal of these discussions is to establish Indian cotton’s quality and credibility on the world stage.
Cotton is not merely a crop; it embodies our cultural heritage, self-reliance, and rural strength. From ancient times to Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of Swadeshi, it has symbolized India’s journey of dignity and independence.
Today, India stands as the world’s largest producer and consumer of cotton, supported by millions of dedicated farmers and scientists. Their contribution has turned Indian cotton into a global emblem of prosperity.
The Government of India’s Mission on Cotton Productivity further reinforces our shared commitment to enhancing yield, quality, and sustainability.
Let us continue this collective endeavor to ensure that Indian cotton remains a source of pride, livelihood, and global respect.
CONTACT US 
