Experts Recommend Policy Strategies to Support Bt Cotton Adoption in India

A policy paper from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) - Central Institute for Cotton Research (CICR) examined and provided policy imperatives on the trends and impact of Bt cotton adoption in India from 1996 to 2022. The data analyzed is based on the government cost of cultivation and trade data from the Food and Agriculture Organization Statistics (FAOSTAT).

Since its introduction in 2002, Bt cotton has significantly boosted agricultural productivity in India, increased farm incomes, and reduced pesticide use. However, recent stagnation in yields and growing resistance of pests raise concerns about the long-term sustainability of Bt cotton. The authors suggest the following policy recommendations to support cotton production and farming communities in the country:

• Strengthen research and development efforts to tackle pest challenges and agronomic needs
• Leverage two decades of Bt cotton experience to develop clear, evidence-based genetically modified (GM) policies
• Support cotton farming through incentives to save water, reduce emissions, and support dry land farmers

The authors also provided a policy matrix regarding GM crops and possible solutions and outcomes. They recommended strategies, such as implementing educational programs, offering financial incentives, and investing in research and development, that may encourage the use of science-driven technologies in other crops in India. These measures have the potential to replicate the success of the technology and contribute to the advancement of agricultural progress in the country.

Read the policy paper for more information.