New Delhi, Feb. 1 -- Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled a comprehensive five-year cotton productivity mission in a significant move to bolster India's agricultural sector, during the presentation of the Union Budget 2025-26.

The initiative aims to transform cotton cultivation practices across the nation, benefiting hundreds of thousands of farmers engaged in cotton farming.

The mission's primary objectives include implementing substantial improvements in cotton farming productivity while promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

A notable aspect of the program is its focus on encouraging the cultivation of extra-long staple cotton varieties, which typically command premium prices in both domestic and international markets...