'Kasturi' branding for cotton

Likely to ensure quality consistency, reduce contamination, thereby, increasing exports

- VAITHEESWARAN

INDIA, the world's largest cotton producer and second-largest consumer, aims to increase exports of raw cotton and value-added products such as yarn and textiles, and create premium value for the domestic cotton with the 'Kasturi Cotton' branding effort.

Union textiles ministry is taking steps to brand Indian cotton by adopting certain standards and specifications in cotton farming, sourcing, optimising the supply chain, and processing for textiles. It includes traceability, and sustainability measures, reflecting the fashion trend in the developed markets.

This is expected to ensure quality and consistency, reduce contamination, thereby, improving quality consistency, and increasing exports. The government hopes this will also help better price realisation for cotton farmers. Kasturi cotton is also expected to enhance value perception for Indian textiles abroad.

The Kasturi Cotton India project will be implemented from October - 2023- 24 cotton season. Preparatory arrangements are in the final stage, according to the Union government.