The Indian government’s Kasturi Cotton Bharat program, spearheaded by the Ministry of Textiles, aims to revolutionize the traceability, certification, and branding of Indian cotton using cutting-edge technology. This landmark initiative, launched with a budget of Rs. 30 crore—Rs. 15 crore of which is contributed by trade and industry bodies through a Memorandum of Understanding signed on December 15, 2022—represents a collaborative effort involving the Government of India, industry stakeholders, and trade bodies.
The program employs QR-based certification technology at every stage of cotton processing, supported by a blockchain-based software platform to ensure complete traceability and the provision of transaction certificates. A dedicated microsite featuring QR code verification and blockchain technology has been developed to underpin this initiative, facilitating transparency and trust throughout the cotton value chain.
Nationwide Implementation and Global Promotion
Kasturi Cotton Bharat operates on a national scale, with efforts to promote the initiative both domestically and internationally. Unlike state-level funding programs, this initiative covers the entire Indian cotton value chain, including stakeholders in Andhra Pradesh. The comprehensive approach ensures that all ginners across the country, including those in Andhra Pradesh, are authorized to produce Kasturi Cotton Bharat-branded cotton, adhering to the prescribed protocols.
To date, 343 modernized ginning and pressing units, including 15 from Andhra Pradesh, have been registered under the program. Approximately 100 bales from Andhra Pradesh have already received certification under the Kasturi Cotton Bharat brand. This widespread participation highlights the program’s reach and the significant steps taken towards standardizing and enhancing the quality of Indian cotton on a national level.
Enhancing Global Competitiveness
Union Minister of State for Textiles, Shri Pabitra Margherita, detailed the program’s goals and achievements in a written reply in the Lok Sabha. The minister emphasized the program’s commitment to enhancing the integrity and global competitiveness of Indian cotton through the adoption of innovative technology. By leveraging QR-based certification and blockchain technology, the program aims to provide unparalleled transparency and traceability in the cotton supply chain, boosting confidence among international buyers and enhancing the reputation of Indian cotton in global markets.
The implementation of QR codes and blockchain technology at every stage of cotton processing ensures that every transaction is recorded and verified, providing a tamper-proof record of the cotton’s journey from farm to fabric. This level of transparency is expected to significantly reduce instances of fraud and misrepresentation, thereby improving the overall quality and reliability of Indian cotton.
Collaborative Efforts and Future Prospects
The collaborative nature of the Kasturi Cotton Bharat program is a testament to the strong partnership between the Indian government, industry stakeholders, and trade bodies. By pooling resources and expertise, the program aims to address longstanding challenges in the cotton industry, such as traceability and quality control, and position Indian cotton as a reliable and premium product on the global stage.
The budget allocation of Rs. 30 crore underscores the government’s commitment to this initiative, providing the necessary financial support to implement advanced technologies and ensure the program’s success. The contribution from trade and industry bodies further highlights the private sector’s willingness to invest in the future of Indian cotton, recognizing the potential benefits of a standardized and traceable cotton supply chain.
Looking ahead, the Kasturi Cotton Bharat program is poised to set new benchmarks in the cotton industry. By enhancing traceability and certification, the program aims to increase the global market share of Indian cotton, attract higher prices, and ultimately improve the livelihoods of cotton farmers and workers across the country. The adoption of innovative technology in the cotton supply chain serves as a model for other agricultural sectors, demonstrating the transformative potential of digital solutions in enhancing transparency, quality, and competitiveness.
In conclusion, the Kasturi Cotton Bharat program represents a significant step forward for the Indian cotton industry. Through a combination of advanced technology, collaborative efforts, and a commitment to quality, the program aims to revolutionize the traceability, certification, and branding of Indian cotton, positioning it as a leader in the global market.