- Fibre crops like cotton, Jute etc are mostly used for packaging and cordage industries.
- They are a major source of foreign exchange for India.
What are the key geographical conditions for growth of fibre crops?
- Cotton: It is primarily grown in areas with Black soil like areas of the Deccan Plateau, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh.
- Jute: It is grown in West Bengal, Bihar, and Assam. It is also known as golden fibre. Jute is a crop of humid tropical climates.
- Coir: Obtained from coconut husks, used for mats and ropes. Indi is leading producer.
- Hemp: Hemp fibre is a highly sustainable, durable bast fibre derived from the stalks of the Cannabis sativa Known for high tensile strength, breathability, and moisture-wicking properties, it is commonly used in textiles, eco-friendly fashion, ropes, and insulation.
Facts you need to know
- India is the world’s largest producer of cotton, holding 37% of the total global cultivation area
- India is the world’s leading producer of raw jute, contributing roughly 45-51% of global production
Source: The Hindu