On October 8, 2024, New Delhi became the epicenter of cotton enthusiasm as the Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI) hosted a lively celebration for World Cotton Day. This gathering brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and global cotton experts, all united by a shared passion for the transformative potential of cotton in the textile and apparel sectors.
The event opened with an inspiring keynote from Shri Giriraj Singh, the Hon’ble Union Minister of Textiles, who passionately emphasized India’s deep-rooted connection to cotton, calling it the backbone of the nation’s textile industry. He outlined an ambitious vision to grow the textile market to an impressive $350 billion by 2030, highlighting the essential role of sustainable cotton production in enhancing rural employment and boosting the economy. “Cotton is woven into the very fabric of our culture,” he proclaimed, stressing that collaboration among the government, industry, and farmers is crucial for establishing India as a global leader in cotton production and innovation.
CITI Chairman Sh. Rakesh Mehra echoed this vision, underscoring the organization’s commitment to advancing cotton research and sustainability. He spotlighted the CITI Cotton Development and Research Association (CDRA) as a driving force behind innovations that enhance cotton quality and yield. “Cotton is not just a crop; it’s a lifeline for millions,” he asserted, reinforcing CITI’s dedication to championing sustainable practices and solving supply chain challenges to secure India’s position in the global textile arena.
Adding to the momentum, Ms. Rachna Shah, Secretary of the Ministry of Textiles, discussed government initiatives aimed at empowering the cotton sector. She highlighted efforts to boost yields through sustainable practices and technical support for farmers, emphasizing that the cotton sector is undergoing a transformative shift. “With partnerships like those with CITI, we’re focusing on climate-resilient farming and sustainable growth,” she said, putting farmers at the heart of this change.
The event featured engaging sessions that sparked dynamic discussions. One session addressed the urgent need to enhance labor standards and welfare in the cotton supply chain, while another showcased the latest technological advancements and sustainable practices revolutionizing cotton farming in India. Additionally, a discussion on cotton trading and risk management focused on strategies to navigate market volatility, ensuring stable incomes for growers and traders.
World Cotton Day 2024 proved to be an essential platform for tackling the pressing challenges in cotton production and mapping a sustainable future for the global textile industry. CITI reaffirmed its unwavering dedication to fostering research, innovation, and collaboration, ensuring that India remains a dominant force in the world of cotton.
