According to a new knowledge paper released by the Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI), India needs a multi-pronged strategy to strengthen ‘farm to factory; practices in its cotton sector and build export-ready ecosystems to meet the national target of $100 billion in textile exports by 2030.

The paper argues, the Indian cotton sector is at a critical crossroads where long-term growth hinges on the convergence of sustainability, innovation, and trade competitiveness, given the current challenges facing cotton production.

To secure a competitive edge in global markets, CITI calls on the government and industry to focus on promoting production of high-quality cotton by using certified seeds and sustainable farming practices. It should implement traceability systems and global certifications to guarantee consistent quality. The government should actively promote organic, fair-trade, and circular farming models. These sustainable cotton variants can command 20 per cent to 30 per cent higher prices in premium global markets.

Further, the paper states, there is a need to streamline procurement and stabilization mechanisms to ensure farmers receive better prices and reduce reliance on middlemen.

It also emphasizes, collaborative efforts between farmers, industry, and policymakers are crucial for ensuring Indian textiles consistently meet global benchmarks for quality, sustainability, and ethical sourcing.

Finally, the report highlights the necessity of supporting industry-led innovation in smart textiles and organic blends. This is particularly important given that India’s technical textiles market is already projected to reach $40 to $50 billion by 2025. Coordinated action, backed by strong policy, investment, and technology transfer, is essential for securing the sector's long-term future.