Compiled by Salil Chawla, Director, DFU Publications
Delivering the keynote address at the 4th Global Cotton Conference held yesterday in New Delhi, H'ble Pabitra Margherita-Union Minister of State for External Affairs; and Textiles , conveyed a powerful message on the future of India’s cotton sector, coinciding with the celebration of World Cotton Day.
It is indeed a privilege to join you all in celebrating World Cotton Day 2025. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Federation of Indian Textile Industry, CITI, and all partner organizations for bringing together farmers, scientists, industry leaders, and policymakers on this meaningful platform that celebrates the story of cotton — a story deeply interwoven with our civilization, economy, and culture.
For India, cotton is not merely a crop; it is a legacy, a livelihood, and a symbol of self-reliance. For centuries, it has sustained millions of farmers, weavers, and artisans — forming the backbone of our textile heritage. Under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and the guidance of Hon’ble Minister of Textiles Giriraj Singh, the Government has undertaken transformative measures to strengthen the cotton and textile ecosystem.
An 80% increase in the Minimum Support Price reflects our commitment to ensuring fair returns for farmers. Simultaneously, the Mission on Cotton Productivity and the Cotton Mission Phase III, jointly spearheaded by the Ministries of Textiles and Agriculture, aim to enhance yield, quality, and sustainability. Our scientists are developing resilient, high-yielding, bio-certified seed varieties suited to future climatic challenges.
In parallel, GST and e-commerce reforms are fostering growth, affordability, and competitiveness across the textile value chain. This year’s theme — “Cotton 2040: Technology, Climate, and Competitiveness” — perfectly captures our aspiration to position India as a global leader not only in cotton production but in quality, sustainability, and ethical standards.
Initiatives such as Cotton Highlights mark a major leap in branding, certification, and visibility, uniting farmers, exporters, and stakeholders under one national identity — that of excellence and authenticity.
India’s cotton journey — from farm to factory, and factory to fashion — embodies innovation, resilience, and inclusivity.
As Minister of State, I have witnessed global admiration for India’s cotton leadership — from Moscow to the Middle East — where collaboration in natural fibres, technical textiles, and sustainable trade is opening new frontiers of opportunity.
Yet, the future of Indian cotton depends on collective action — by government, industry, farmers, researchers, and international partners. Together, we can build a future that is more productive, sustainable, and farmer-centric.
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