Cotton has always been part of India’s story. For centuries, it has touched lives in simple, everyday ways. From clothing a nation to symbolizing self-reliance through Khadi during the Swadeshi movement, cotton is integral to India’s identity.
Today, India is amongst the world’s largest producer, consumers and exporter of cotton. Over 8 million farmers grow it, while another 40–50 million people are engaged in its trade, processing, and allied sectors. India’s textile industry contributes 14% to industrial production, 4% to GDP, and over 14% to export earnings. Yet behind these impressive numbers lies the enduring story of millions of farmers whose livelihoods depend on cotton and whose future rests on how we nurture this natural fiber.
Cotton & India - A Shared Legacy
Who We Are
At COTAAP Research Foundation, cotton is more than just a crop — it’s a source of livelihood, progress, and possibility for millions of Indian farmers. Since 1987, we’ve been working to strengthen India’s cotton value chain with one clear goal: to ensure a more sustainable, productive, and globally competitive cotton industry. As a not-for-profit organization, our mission is rooted in creating real, lasting impact for those who depend on cotton.
How We Power the Cotton Ecosystem
Our work is anchored in two key areas:
- Cotton Agronomics
Supporting farmers with better practices, knowledge, and resources.
- Cotton Promotion
Strengthening demand by building awareness and inspiring consumers to choose natural fibre cotton.