Farmers in Maharashtra are experiencing positive outcomes following the adoption of the Regenerative Cotton Standard® (RCS), with their first harvest showing increased yields and reduced costs, as per reports. Approximately 5,000 farmers across more than 70 villages participated in the RCS program, harvesting roughly 4,400 tonnes of ginned cotton.
The initial results indicate a 2 per cent increase in crop yield compared to the previous year, coupled with a 7 per cent reduction in farming costs. This combination has led to increased net incomes for participating farmers. Additionally, the standard’s use of biochar for soil regeneration has demonstrated significant potential, with demonstration fields achieving a 15 per cent higher yield than traditional cotton farming methods.
The RCS program has also been well-received by farmers, with 90 per cent of participants reporting that the new training methodologies are effective. The success of the program is attributed to its comprehensive approach, which includes engaging local leaders, working closely with lead farmers, and establishing farmer groups for direct communication. Targeted support for women, demonstration fields, and workshops were also implemented to educate farmers on regenerative cultivation methods such as cover cropping, crop rotation, and soil conservation.
The Aid by Trade Foundation (AbTF), in partnership with Vijay Cotton & Fibre Co. LLP, conducted on-site testing and provided agricultural consultants to ensure the practicality and efficiency of the RCS standard. Tina Stridde, Managing Director of AbTF, emphasised the standard’s holistic approach and its focus on farmer experiences, stating that it benefits all stakeholders.
The RCS program also provides traceability for the textile supply chain through AbTF’s tracking system, meeting the demand for transparency from field to finished product. This benefits both farmers and buyers of RCS cotton.
The pilot project in India, which began in July 2024, will continue. Alongside India, the Regenerative Cotton Standard® is also being implemented in Tanzania, where the first RCS cotton cycle has been completed, and the second season is underway.
