In the realm of agricultural biotechnology, Bt cotton stands out as one of the most widely adopted genetically modified crops in India. Engineered to combat major cotton pests, particularly bollworms, this innovation has transformed India’s cotton landscape—economically, technologically, and socially. But it hasn’t come without controversy.

What is Bt Cotton?

Bt cotton is a genetically modified (GM) variety of cotton that produces an insecticidal protein derived from the soil bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). The key gene involved, known as the cry gene, codes for delta endotoxin, a protein that forms crystalline inclusions within the bacterial spores. These crystals are toxic to the larvae of lepidopteran pests, offering the crop built-in resistance and significantly reducing the need for external pesticide applications.

Development and Production

Bt cotton was originally developed by the agricultural biotechnology giant Monsanto. In India, it was introduced in collaboration with Mahyco (Maharashtra Hybrid Seeds Company), marking a significant milestone in the country’s agricultural sector. Over time, India also began breeding its own Bt cotton varieties, including notable examples like Bikaneri Nerma and hybrids such as NHH-44.

India's Cotton Boom

Following the adoption of Bt cotton, India witnessed a sharp rise in cotton productivity. Today, India:

  • Accounts for around 93% of its cotton cultivation using Bt cotton.
  • Has emerged as the world’s largest exporter of cotton.
  • Is the second-largest cotton producer globally.

The technology has undeniably contributed to increased yields and reduced crop losses due to pest infestations, especially in the early years of its adoption.

Controversies and Criticism

Despite its success, Bt cotton has been at the center of heated debates in India. Several concerns have been raised over the years, such as:

  • Seed Monopolies: Monsanto’s initial control over Bt seed patents and partnerships with local companies raised fears of corporate monopolies in the seed market.
  • Economic Burden on Farmers: Bt seeds are significantly more expensive than conventional varieties. Moreover, they lose vigour after one generation, meaning farmers cannot reuse seeds and must purchase fresh stock each year.
  • Social Impact: Some reports have linked Bt cotton to rising farmer indebtedness and suicides, especially in regions where crop failures coincided with high input costs. While the causal relationship remains contested, the issue has fueled distrust and calls for stricter regulation and greater transparency.

Conclusion

Bt cotton has been both a technological triumph and a social flashpoint in India’s agricultural narrative. It showcases how biotechnology can offer powerful solutions to traditional farming challenges—but also underscores the importance of equitable access, farmer education, and ethical commercialization.

As India continues to refine its policies and approaches to genetically modified crops, the story of Bt cotton serves as both a lesson and a legacy—reminding us that innovation must always walk hand in hand with responsibility.