Participatory non-GM cotton breeding to safeguard organic cotton production in India

Summary

Due to fast spread of genetically modified (GM) Bt-cotton, organic farmers in India were suddenly exposed to a severe shortage of non-GM seed threatening the organic cotton production. Therefore, organic cotton grower organisations got engaged in decentralized participatory cotton breeding to develop their own locally adapted cultivars and to reintroduce the traditional more robust Desi cotton species. By engaging and training advisors and farmers using participatory methods, they became researchers and breeders. The close collaboration with the textile industry ensures that the market demand is also met. Training of male and female farmers in cultivar selection and seed propagation made them independent from global seed companies. Participatory breeding is an important tool to get prepared for future challenges like climate change and at the same time strengthens the relationship along the value chain. The project can serve as a successful model for other organisations and crops.