"Why cotton production is declining despite the adoption of Bt cotton"

India, once a global leader in cotton production following the adoption of Bt cotton (genetically modified to resist bollworms), is now facing declining yields, rising input costs, and stagnant area under cultivation, despite Bt cotton covering over 95% of cotton-growing area.

Key Issues Identified:

Yield Stagnation and Decline:

• Yield dropped from 566 kg/ha (2013-14) to 436 kg/ha (2023-24).

• India now has the lowest yields among top 5 cotton producers.

• Production for 2024–25 is estimated at 294.25 lakh bales — the lowest in over a decade.

Pest Resistance and Secondary Pests:

• Pink bollworm developed resistance to Bt toxin, causing annual losses worth ₹3,900 crore.

• Rise of secondary pests (jassids, thrips) increased the need for additional insecticide use.

Rising Input Costs:

• Fertilizer use increased from 90 kg/ha to 200 kg/ha.

• Insecticide costs per hectare have increased, contrary to initial claims.

• High seed prices and dependence on multinational seed companies are concerns for small farmers.

Environmental and Socio-Economic Concerns:

• Negative effects on biodiversity, soil health, and labour displacement.

• Questions on the long-term sustainability of Bt technology.

Contrasting Views:

• ICAR-CICR Paper: Acknowledges early gains in yield and reduced pesticide usage (2002–2016).

• Activists : Argue agrochemical usage has risen; Bt cotton hasn't reduced costs or risks meaningfully.

Way Forward :

• Policy reforms and investments in R&D for newer GM varieties with stacked traits.

• Promote high-density planting systems and Integrated Pest Management (IPM).

• Initiate an informed policy debate on GM technology and provide holistic support to farmers.

UPSC Relevance:

Prelims:

• Bt cotton, Pink Bollworm, GM crops, ICAR, cotton-growing states.

Mains (GS3):

• Issues in agriculture, technological interventions, GM crops debate, pest management, inclusive farm policies.