Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI) alongwith International LabourOrganisation (ILO) has launched a new initiative to support cotton farmers in the country.
Through this collaboration, CITI and the ILO aim to raise awareness about Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work (FPRW), specifically targeting small and marginal farmers and workers.
The collaboration seeks to facilitate knowledge sharing and provide technical support for implementing FPRW-related policies and programs. The initiative will enhance access to social protection schemes, empowering vulnerable families involved in cotton cultivation, according to a joint media release from the two organisations.
The initial focus of the joint activities will be on five districts in Madhya Pradesh, a significant region for organic and Extra-Long Staple (ELS) cotton production. The goal is to improve the overall well-being of cotton farmers and workers in these areas.
For the last 54 years, CITI, through its extension arm, the Cotton Development and Research Association (CDRA), has been working to improve the yield and quality of cotton by creating awareness of the best agronomic practices and equipping farmers with the latest technologies in production, plant protection, and nutrient management. Throughout its journey, CITI-CDRA has positively impacted cotton productivity, farmer income, soil health, and market linkage, says, T Rajkumar, Chairman, CITI - Standing Committee on Cotton.
CITI-CDRA is already operational in Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh, playing a crucial role in the Pilot Project on Cotton. A collaborative effort between the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Textiles, this project aims to enhance cotton yield through improved agronomic practices and technological interventions such as the High-Density Planting System (HDPS) and closer spacing techniques.
