Daily Current Affairs : 10-August-2023

In recent news, the Union Minister of State for the Ministry of Textiles has announced the launch of the Cott-Ally mobile app, designed exclusively for the benefit of cotton farmers. This app, developed by the Cotton Corporation of India Limited (CCI), is set to revolutionize the way cotton farmers interact with the market and access vital information.

Cott-Ally App: A Game Changer for Cotton Farmers

The Cott-Ally app comes with a range of features aimed at simplifying the cotton farming experience and improving the livelihoods of farmers. Some of its notable features include:

  1. User-Friendly Interface in Regional Languages: The app is designed to be user-friendly and accessible in various regional languages. This ensures that farmers across different regions can easily navigate and utilize its features.
  2. Real-Time Cotton Rates: Farmers can access the Minimum Support Price (MSP) rates for cotton, categorized by state, variety, and quality. This empowers them with crucial pricing information to make informed decisions.
  3. Tracking Payment Status: Cotton farmers can now track the real-time payment status of their kapas (cotton) sold to CCI under the MSP scheme. This transparency eliminates uncertainties related to payments and promotes trust.
  4. Procurement Centers Information: The app provides contact details and information about procurement centers established by CCI. This facilitates smoother interactions between farmers and the procurement infrastructure.
  5. Live Chat Support: To address any doubts or grievances, the app offers a direct interaction feature with CCI through live chat. This real-time support system enhances farmer assistance and problem-solving.
Cotton Corporation of India Limited: A Backbone for Cotton Farmers

Established in 1970 under the Ministry of Textiles, the CCI plays a pivotal role in supporting cotton farmers. Its functions include:

  • Price Support Operations: CCI intervenes in the market when kapas prices drop below the MSP, ensuring that farmers receive fair prices for their produce.
  • Commercial Purchase Operations: Apart from MSP operations, CCI also undertakes commercial purchases to fulfill the raw material requirements of the domestic textile industry.
The Vibrant Cotton Industry in India

India holds the distinction of being the world’s largest cotton producer. The Central Zone, encompassing states like Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh, contributes significantly to this status. Key points about the industry include:

  • Gujarat’s Dominance: Gujarat stands as the highest cotton producer in the Central Zone, with Saurashtra region being a significant contributor.
  • Global Exporter: In 2020, India ranked third in global raw cotton exports, accounting for around 10.2% of total exports. Notably, India exported cotton to over 159 countries in 2021-22, with major importers being Bangladesh, China, and Vietnam.
Government Measures for Cotton Sector Development

The Indian government has implemented several measures to boost the cotton sector:

  • Special Package: This includes enhanced incentives under the Amended Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (ATUFS) and relaxation of Income Tax Act’s Section 80JJAA, promoting growth in the apparel sector.
  • Market Access Initiative (MAI) Scheme: Through this scheme, the government offers tax rebates and aid to exporters, fostering a favorable environment for cotton industry growth.
  • Capacity Building: Schemes like SAMARTH aim to address skill shortages in the textile sector by training 10 lakh individuals, ensuring a skilled workforce.
  • Mega Investment Textiles Parks (MITRA): Launched to establish seven textile parks over three years, MITRA aims to enhance global competitiveness, generate employment, and attract investments.
Ensuring Cotton Farmers’ Welfare

To shield cotton farmers from distress sales, CCI is appointed as a central nodal agency for MSP operations. Additionally, the Committee on Cotton Promotion and Consumption (COCPC) ensures a steady supply of cotton to the textile industry.

Why In News

The Union Minister of State for the Ministry of Textiles has recently announced the launch of the Cott-Ally mobile app, a dedicated platform designed exclusively for the benefit of cotton farmers. This technological initiative aims to empower cotton farmers by providing them with real-time information and resources, fostering a more efficient and informed approach to cultivation.Furthermore, the Cott-Ally app is set to revolutionize the cotton farming landscape by promoting sustainable practices and facilitating direct communication between farmers and experts. Through this innovative tool, the Ministry of Textiles seeks to elevate the livelihoods of cotton farmers while fostering a stronger, more interconnected agricultural community.

MCQs about Cott-Ally App and Government Initiatives

  1. What is the primary purpose of the “Cott-Ally” mobile app developed by the Cotton Corporation of India (CCI)?
    A. Providing weather forecasts for cotton-growing regions.
    B. Offering financial loans to cotton farmers.
    C. Facilitating real-time tracking of cotton prices.
    D. Promoting tourism in cotton-producing states.
    Correct Answer: C. Facilitating real-time tracking of cotton prices.
    Explanation: The “Cott-Ally” app allows farmers to access real-time Minimum Support Price (MSP) rates for cotton, categorized by state, variety, and quality.
  2. Which government initiative aims to address skill shortages in the textile sector, including the shortage of skilled workers for cotton farming?
    A. Market Access Initiative (MAI) Scheme
    B. Mega Investment Textiles Parks (MITRA)
    C. Capacity Building through SAMARTH scheme
    D. Amended Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (ATUFS)
    Correct Answer: C. Capacity Building through SAMARTH scheme
    Explanation: The SAMARTH scheme aims to address the shortage of skilled workers in the textile sector, which includes training individuals for various aspects of cotton farming.
  3. Which region is the highest producer of cotton in India, contributing significantly to the country’s status as the world’s largest cotton producer?
    A. Northern States including Punjab and Haryana
    B. Western States including Rajasthan and Gujarat
    C. Southern States including Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh
    D. Central Zone including Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh
    Correct Answer: D. Central Zone including Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Madhya Pradesh
    Explanation: Gujarat, particularly Saurashtra within the Central Zone, is a significant contributor to India’s cotton production.
  4. What is the role of the Cotton Corporation of India (CCI) in relation to cotton prices?
    A. CCI fixes cotton prices based on market demand.
    B. CCI ensures farmers receive fair prices by intervening when market prices fall below MSP.
    C. CCI only purchases cotton from international markets for domestic use.
    D. CCI monitors cotton prices but does not have any regulatory role.
    Correct Answer: B. CCI ensures farmers receive fair prices by intervening when market prices fall below MSP.
    Explanation: CCI’s primary function is to undertake price support operations to support cotton farmers by intervening in the market when prices fall below the Minimum Support Price (MSP).

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