Source: IE
Context: Union Finance Minister announced a five-year mission to boost the productivity and sustainability of Extra-Long Staple (ELS) cotton farming in India during the Union Budget 2025-26.
About ELS Cotton:
- What is ELS Cotton?
- ELS cotton refers to cotton varieties with fibre lengths of 30 mm and above, known for their superior quality, softness, and durability.
- Primarily derived from the Gossypium barbadense species, also known as Egyptian or Pima cotton.
- Features:
- Longer Fibres: Fibre length exceeds 30 mm, making it ideal for premium textiles.
- High Quality: Produces finer, stronger, and smoother yarns, used in luxury fabrics.
- Durability: Resistant to wear and tear, suitable for high-end clothing and home textiles.
- Regions Grown In:
- Global: Mainly grown in Egypt, China, Australia, and Peru.
- India: Cultivated in Atpadi taluka (Maharashtra), Coimbatore (Tamil Nadu), and parts of Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh.
- Difference Between Short, Medium, and Long Staple Cotton:
| Parameter | Short Staple | Medium Staple | Long Staple (ELS) |
| Fibre Length | Below 25 mm | 25-28.6 mm | 30 mm and above |
| Species | Gossypium hirsutum | Gossypium hirsutum | Gossypium barbadense |
| Quality | Coarser, less durable | Moderate quality | Superior quality |
| Uses | Low-cost textiles | Everyday fabrics | Luxury textiles |
| Yield per Acre | High | Moderate | Low (7-8 quintals) |
- Issues with ELS Cotton in India:
- Low Yield: ELS cotton yields 7-8 quintals per acre, significantly lower than medium staple varieties (10-12 quintals).
- Lack of Market Linkages: Farmers struggle to secure premium prices for ELS cotton due to inadequate market access and infrastructure.
- Technological Gaps: Limited access to advanced seeds, agronomic practices, and pest-resistant technologies like HtBT cotton.
- Import Dependency: India imports 90% of its ELS cotton(20-25 lakh bales annually) to meet textile industry demands.
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