Cotton production has become a critical indicator of agricultural success and economic stability for many countries. Currently, Pakistan is facing significant economic challenges particularly in the cotton sector.
Until the 1990s, India lagged behind Pakistan in cotton yielding. However, in the 2023-24 season, India produced a staggering 34.7 million bales of cotton, accounting for 25% of the world’s total production, making it the largest producer globally. In contrast, Pakistan’s cotton production stands at a mere 8-9 million bales, representing only 4-5% of global production, placing it fifth worldwide.
The disparity in cotton growing between India and Pakistan highlights several critical issues. India’s solid plans aim to increase its cotton production to over 40 million bales by 2030. Meanwhile, Pakistan faces uncertainties due to factors affecting cotton cultivation, such as water shortage. This shortage led the Punjab department to reduce the target for cotton cultivation from 5 million acres to 4 million acres.
Additionally, Pakistan has not announced a support price for cotton, whereas India has fixed support prices for 31 crops. The lack of government attention and investment in the cotton sector is a significant concern. India’s allocation of 0.4% of its GDP to research and development contrasts sharply with Pakistan’s lower investment. Without substantial investment in research, Pakistan cannot hope to achieve the desired results in cotton production.
The Pakistan Central Cotton Committee (PCCC), the largest cotton research organization under the Ministry of National Food Security and Research, is currently in a severe financial and administrative crisis. Established in 1948, the PCCC has delivered bumper crops in the past but now struggles due to financial constraints. The cotton cess, set at Rs 50 per bale in 2012, remains unchanged in 2024, and the textile industry has stopped paying this cess since 2016.
In conclusion, prioritizing cotton production is essential for Pakistan’s economic stability and growth. Learning from India’s success and implementing similar policies can help Pakistan regain its position in the global cotton market.
