CITI and ILO Collaborate to Empower Cotton Farmers in India

The Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI) has joined forces with the International Labor Organization (ILO) to advocate for Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work (FPRW) among India's cotton farmers. The initiative targets about 6.5 million farmers, focusing on fair labour practices and social protection, especially small and marginal farmers and migrant workers.

The Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI) has announced a partnership with the International Labor Organization (ILO) to promote Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work (FPRW) within the Indian cotton farming community.

The initial phase of the project will concentrate on key cotton-producing areas in Madhya Pradesh. This initiative aims to foster fair labour practices, enhance social protection, and improve sustainable livelihoods for approximately 6.5 million cotton farmers, 40% of whom are women.

The focus will be on supporting small and marginal farmers as well as migrant labourers working on leased land. CITI Secretary General Chandrima Chatterjee highlights that this collaboration marks significant progress toward ensuring fair treatment for cotton farmers within the global supply chain. CITI Chairman Rakesh Mehra emphasizes the critical role of cotton in both domestic and global textile industries.

(With inputs from agencies.)