A study on Seed Processing in India

Cotton is a major fibre crop of global significance. It is grown in tropical and sub-tropical regions of more than 80 countries. The major cotton producing countries are China, India, USA, Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Turkey, Brazil, Greece, Argentina,Australia and Egypt contributing about 85% of global production. India has the largest area under cotton cultivation in the world (9.1 million ha.) and growsall four cultivated species namely, G. hirsutum, G. barbadense, G. herbaceum and G. arboreum on commercial scale. The major cotton growing states are Punjab, Haryana,Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, A.P., Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. However, the productivity of cotton in India is low due to its rainfed cultivation in major areas (66%) and inadequate use of quality inputs. India is the pioneer country for commercial cultivation of cotton hybrids which covers more than 50% of the cotton area. Cotton hybrids have 50% higher productivity than varieties. Moreover, hybrids have wider adaptability, high degree of resistance tobiotic and abiotic stresses and better fibre quality. Hybrids can be developed with comparatively lesser time frame than straight varieties.