"Sustainability is not an option; it is the only way forward"

Agrovision Foundation Round Table Discussion

- Abhitash Singh

On May 28, industry leaders, agricultural experts, and government representatives gathered for a pivotal round table discussion focused on Increasing Cotton Productivity and Profitability in Maharashtra. Held at the ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cotton Technology (ICAR-CIRCOT) in Matunga, Mumbai, this event was a convergence of minds aimed at addressing the pressing challenges and opportunities within Maharashtra's cotton sector. A central theme that emerged during the discourse was the urgent need for steps to increase the productivity with quality enhancement.

The round table discussion was organised by Agrovision Foundation, Nagpur, in collaboration with the Indian Society for Cotton Improvement (ISCI), Mumbai, with esteemed support from knowledge Partners like ICAR-Central Institute for Cotton Research (ICAR-CICR), Nagpur, and ICAR-CIRCOT, Mumbai. About 25 distinguished experts from state and central government institutions, research organisations, stakeholders, and representatives from the cotton trade and industry participated, suggesting ways and means to achieve the target of improving farm income through increased cotton productivity.

The Significance of Cotton in Maharashtra

Maharashtra, a cornerstone of India's cotton production, significantly contributes to the nation's textile industry. The state's cotton, especially the Kasturi brand, is renowned for its quality and has a substantial market presence. However, the sector faces myriad challenges, from fluctuating market prices to climateinduced disruptions and the need for improved farming practices. This backdrop set the stage for a rich discussion on enhancing productivity and profitability, with sustainability as the Linchpin.