The cultivation of Bt. cotton in India, the only genetically modified (GM) crop approved for commercial cultivation, continues to demonstrate significant benefits to farmers across the country. Approved by the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) of the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change in 2002, Bt. cotton has revolutionized cotton farming, with over 96% of the area under cotton cultivation now dedicated to this GM variety.
A study conducted by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)-Central Institute for Cotton Research (CICR), Nagpur, evaluated the impact of Bt. cotton in Maharashtra during 2012-13 and 2013-14. The study revealed a drastic reduction in bollworm infestation, reducing the need for insecticide applications from 8 to 4 sprays. Additionally, ICAR-CICR research indicated no adverse effects of Bt. cotton cultivation on soil ecological parameters.
In Andhra Pradesh, for the year 2023-24, over 4,73,345 farmers are cultivating Bt. cotton. The ICAR-CICR study observed a yield difference of 3-4 quintals per acre with the adoption of Bt. cotton, leading to an increase in income due to higher yields and reduced insecticide costs. The current net return from Bt. cotton in rainfed conditions is estimated at Rs. 25,000 per hectare with the adoption of suitable agronomic practices.
Given the widespread adoption of Bt. cotton, which occupies over 96% of the cotton cultivation area, conducting studies on non-Bt. cotton has become increasingly difficult, as it is no longer widely cultivated. This data underscores the significant and lasting impact of Bt. cotton on Indian agriculture, contributing to higher yields, reduced pest damage, and improved profitability for farmers.
