As one of the most extensively cultivated crops around the world, cotton has played and continues to play a significant role in the economy of various countries. India is the largest producer of cotton, and the adoption of Bt cotton has contributed to the increase in its yield. In recent years, the development of newer and improved varieties of Bt cotton has resulted in even greater yields and harvests.
Bt cotton, which incorporates a bacterium-derived protein called Bacillus thuringiensis, is resistant to bollworm and whitefly infestations. The cotton plant, when attacked by bollworm or whitefly, releases a toxin that kills the pests. With the implementation of Bt cotton, farmers can save on costs for insecticides as well as increase yields. The use of Bt cotton has shown to increase yields by more than 20% in some instances.
One such example of an improved variety of Bt cotton is Mahyco’s RCH 2 Bt. It is a third-generation Bt cotton hybrid that is resistant to the American bollworm and has a high yield capacity. The seeds hybrid has been tested extensively and has shown to provide higher yields than other cotton varieties. In addition, it is also resistant to pests such as pink bollworm and whitefly, which can cause significant damage to cotton crops.
Another improved variety of cotton seed is known as GCH CJH-543 Bt. This variety is developed by the Gujarat Cotton Development Board and boasts high yields as well as resistance to bollworm and other pests. In addition, this variety requires less water than traditional cotton varieties, making it ideal for regions experiencing drought.
The implementation of newer and improved varieties of Bt cotton has brought about significant improvements in the percentage of cotton crop yields. It has allowed farmers to reduce their reliance on pesticides and insecticides while increasing their harvests. The utilization of newer varieties of Bt cotton has also positively impacted the health of farmers and the ecosystem, as fewer chemicals are required in farming operations.
In conclusion, the benefits of using improved varieties of Bt cotton are numerous. They offer high yields, resistance to pests, and require minimal chemical treatments. As cotton farming continues to grow globally, the implementation of newer and improved varieties of Bt cotton is expected to contribute to further increases in yields and significant benefits to the cotton industry and global economy.