The Organic Cotton Accelerator (OCA) hosted the Stakeholder Event India 2024: Scaling Organic Cotton in India on Nov 27–28 in New Delhi. This key gathering brought together farmers, brands, suppliers, manufacturers, and public sector representatives to foster collaboration across the organic cotton value chain, emphasising India’s role as a global leader in organic cotton production.
The event highlighted OCA’s work since 2016, which has supported nearly 110,000 farmers across Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Telangana. Their Farm Program has delivered tangible benefits, such as high-quality non-GM seeds, premium payments above market prices, and extensive training, empowering farmers with sustainable and profitable practices.
Aligning with India’s 5F Initiative, the event focused on creating an integrated and sustainable textile value chain, reinforcing the government’s commitment to organic cotton as a key driver of rural development and environmental protection.
Inaugurating the event, a 13-member farmer delegation shared firsthand insights into the benefits of organic farming and the challenges they face. Sangita Bai Munna, an AKRSPI farmer, emphasised the importance of premium pricing for organic products and thanked OCA for connecting small and tribal farmers with global markets.
Discussions at the event centered on creating equitable working conditions, fostering climate adaptation strategies, and meeting global climate goals, with an emphasis on direct-to-farm sourcing for enhanced transparency. Sessions addressed trade dynamics, emerging technologies, and rising demand for sustainably sourced textiles, offering attendees tools to navigate an evolving regulatory landscape.
The event was supported by leading sponsors such as Arvind, Pratibha Syntex, Suminter India Organic, RSB Cottex, Milan Group, etc.
Highlighting India’s rile in the organic cotton movement, Bart Vollaard, Executive Director, OCA stated, more than just production, scaling organic cotton involves creating lasting value for farmers and the environment.
