Seed Industry Calls for HTBt Cotton Approval Amid Informal Market Concerns
- Reports
- 2
- Developments
- 1
- Repetition
- 50%
New informationRepeats or wire copies
What happened
The Federation of Seed Industry of India and the National Seed Association of India demanded that the government allow commercial cultivation of herbicide-tolerant Bt (HTBt) cotton. A study covering 16 districts in Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Rajasthan found that unauthorized HTBt cotton was grown on 65-72 lakh acres during Kharif 2025-26, representing 24-30 per cent of India's total cotton area.
Why it matters
The unauthorized cultivation sustains an informal seed market estimated to be worth ₹1,500 crore. The industry bodies stressed that introducing high-yielding varieties and new technologies is necessary to boost domestic cotton production and reduce imports.
Who's involved
- RanaFSII Chairman who reported on the extent of unauthorized HTBt cotton cultivation.
- MahycoCompany seeking approval for HT Bt cotton.
- RajasthanState covered by the study identifying unauthorized HTBt cotton.
- Andhra PradeshState covered by the study identifying unauthorized HTBt cotton.
- MaharashtraState covered by the study identifying unauthorized HTBt cotton.
Who could feel it
Possible knock-on effectsThese are possibilities Brind reasoned out, not predictions, and not advice. Most are not stated in any report.
- MahycoSpeculative
Mahyco could see changes in its revenue and supply chain if HTBt cotton cultivation is approved.
- RajasthanSpeculative
Farmers in Rajasthan might see changes in seed costs or crop yields if the informal seed market is regulated.
- Andhra PradeshSpeculative
Farmers in Andhra Pradesh might see changes in seed costs or crop yields if the informal seed market is regulated.
- MaharashtraSpeculative
Farmers in Maharashtra might see changes in seed costs or crop yields if the informal seed market is regulated.