A Brief History of Cotton in India

India has been cultivating cotton for over 5,000 years, with the earliest evidence dating back to the Indus Valley Civilization (around 3000 BCE). Ancient Indian weavers were renowned for their fine, hand-spun cotton fabrics, famously known as "muslin" and  "calico."

During the Mughal era, Indian cotton textiles were in high demand across Asia and Europe. However, under British colonial rule, India’s handloom industry suffered heavily as raw cotton was exported and British mill-made fabric was imported back into the country.

Post-independence, India focused on reviving its cotton sector with modern agricultural practices and industrial infrastructure. Today, India has not only reclaimed its legacy but become a global leader in cotton production and exports.

India's Current Position in Global Cotton Production

India is currently

• The world’s largest cotton producer,  accounting for around 23% of global production
• Among the top 3 cotton exporters globally
• One of the largest consumers of cotton (due to its massive textile industry)

Annual stats(approx.):

• Cotton cultivation area: ~12     million hectares
• Annual production: 35–37     million bales (1 bale = 170 kg)
• Major export markets: Bangladesh,     China, Vietnam, Indonesia, Turkey

🗺️Major Cotton-Producing States in India

Cotton thrives in India’s warm and semi-arid climate. The major cotton-producing states are:

Gujarat consistently ranks as the top cotton-producing state, contributing over 25% to India’s total output.

🏛️Government Initiatives and Support

The Indian government plays a crucial role in supporting cotton farmers and improving the cotton economy:

• Minimum Support Price (MSP) for raw cotton ensures fair income for farmers.
• Cotton Corporation of India (CCI) helps with procurement, price stabilization, and exports.
• Promotion of BT Cotton seeds, which now account for over 90% of cultivated cotton.
• Launch of "Cotton Mission" to increase productivity and sustainability.
• Support for organic cotton through subsidies and awareness programs.

These initiatives have improved yields, stabilized farmer incomes, and opened up new export opportunities.

🧵Our Role in the Indian Cotton Value Chain

At Riddhi Siddhi Cotex ,we are proud to be part of India’s cotton story. With deep roots in Gujarat—India’s cotton capital—we work closely with farmers, ginners, and textile manufacturers to deliver high-quality cotton across domestic and international markets.

Our company:

• Sources cotton directly from local farming communities
• Ensures ethical and sustainable practices
• Maintains strict quality control at every stage
• Supplies to both Indian textile mills and global buyers

Continuously invests in innovation and supply chain efficiency

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