India, once a global leader in cotton production and export, is facing a significant agricultural crisis. Despite favorable trade conditions—US import tariffs on Indian textiles are lower than those on China, Vietnam, or Bangladesh—the country’s cotton economy is struggling. The primary issue is not trade policy but a persistent decline in cotton production, largely due to pest resistance, particularly the pink bollworm (PBW).

The Rise and Decline of BT Cotton

India’s cotton revolution began with the introduction of genetically modified (GM) Bt cotton in the early 2000s. BT cotton significantly increased production and yields, but its success was short-lived. By 2024–25, cotton output is projected to fall to just over 294 lakh bales, the lowest since 2008–09. Yields have declined from 566 kg/hectare to around 436–437 kg in recent years.

The Pink Bollworm Threat

The pink bollworm has developed resistance to BT toxins, primarily due to its monophagous nature and rapid lifecycle. PBW infests cotton bolls, causing yield loss and fiber damage. Its spread has been regional, impacting central India by 2014, southern states by 2017, and northern regions by 2021.

Biotech Innovations and Field Trials

To combat PBW resistance, Indian companies are developing next-generation GM cotton hybrids with new BT genes. Several promising efforts include :-

• Bioseed Research India: Testing cotton hybrids with the cry8Ea1 gene.
• Rasi Seeds Pvt Ltd: Developing hybrids using a synthetic cry1c gene.
• Ankur Seeds: Collaborating on chimeric Bt proteins for enhanced effectiveness.
• Ajeet Seeds Pvt Ltd: Conducting trials for lines using the cry2Aa gene.

Regulatory and Policy Challenges

Despite industry readiness, regulatory delays have hindered the commercialization of new GM crops since 2006. The approval process involves multiple stages, including event selection trials, biosafety testing, and state government concurrence.

Government Initiative

The government has announced a five-year Mission for Cotton Productivity to support innovation and potentially fast-track regulatory approvals. This initiative aims to enhance cotton growers’ access to advanced technology and ensure quality raw materials for the textile industry.

India’s cotton sector faces a critical moment. The pink bollworm has exposed the limitations of existing GM technologies, and slow regulatory responses risk exacerbating the crisis. However, hope lies in new GM cotton hybrids and government support for innovation. With faster approvals, better pest surveillance, and coordinated field trials, India can reverse declining yield trends and reclaim its global cotton leadership.