Government Urged to Approve HTBt Cotton Cultivation Amid Illegal Growth
Seed industry bodies FSII and NSAI have called for the government to allow commercial cultivation of herbicide-tolerant Bt (HTBt) cotton, citing illegal growth and a burgeoning informal seed market worth Rs 1,500 crore. They emphasize the need for new technologies to boost domestic cotton production.
What Happened?
Seed industry bodies FSII and NSAI have called for the government to allow commercial cultivation of herbicide-tolerant Bt (HTBt) cotton, citing illegal growth and a burgeoning informal seed market worth Rs 1,500 crore. They emphasize the need for new technologies to boost domestic cotton production.
AI Quick Summary
FSII and NSAI urge the government to approve HTBt cotton cultivation to address illegal growth and boost domestic production.
Key points
- FSII and NSAI demand government approval for HTBt cotton cultivation.
- Illegal HTBt cotton is reportedly grown on 65-72 lakh acres in India.
- The informal seed market for HTBt cotton is valued at Rs 1,500 crore.
- India's cotton production is around 29 million bales.
- Glyphosate use has increased significantly for weed control.
Key insights
- The informal market for HTBt cotton indicates a significant demand for this technology.
- Regulatory approval could stabilize the cotton seed market and reduce illegal practices.
- Farmers are currently paying a premium for unapproved seeds, impacting their profitability.
Why it matters
The approval of HTBt cotton could enhance domestic cotton production and reduce reliance on imports.
Source
Times of India
