World Cotton Day 2025: Cotton, popularly known as "white gold," is one of the most important natural fibres in the world- valued for its comfort, durability, and breathability. It serves as the foundation of the global textile industry and is a crucial source of income for millions of farmers, particularly smallholders.

World Cotton Day, a global initiative launched by the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2019, is celebrated annually on October 7 to recognize the vital role cotton plays in our lives.

History of Cotton

With roots tracing back to ancient civilizations such as the Indus Valley, Egypt, and Peru, cotton is one of the oldest fibers known to humanity. It has been cultivated for thousands of years.

Its significance grew during the Middle Ages and continued to rise during the Industrial Revolution (1700s–1800s), thanks to innovations like the cotton gin and the spinning jenny that revolutionized production.

In the 20th century, Mahatma Gandhi popularized khadi, hand-spun cotton, as a symbol of India's independence from British rule. Today, cotton continues to be a globally essential fiber, supporting millions of farmers and industries in more than 80 countries.

Significance of Cotton

1. Economic Importance

Cotton provides livelihoods to millions of farmers worldwide, especially women.

While vital in developed nations, cotton acts as an economic safety net for many developing and least-developed countries by generating foreign exchange through exports.

The cotton sector contributes significantly to national economies.

2. Industrial Role

Textile Use: Cotton’s comfort, breathability, and durability make it a preferred material for a wide range of textile products.

Non-Textile Use: Beyond textiles, cotton yields other products like cottonseed oil, used in cooking and various industrial applications.

3. Social and Cultural Significance

Cotton meets a fundamental human need, clothing.

The cotton industry empowers women and supports sustainable livelihoods, especially in rural communities.

4. Medical Role

Cotton is widely used in bandages, cotton swabs, dressings, and hygiene products.

Its softness, absorbency, and safety make it ideal for healthcare use.

5. Development Role

For many rural and impoverished communities, cotton offers a path out of poverty by providing employment and income.

It promotes innovation in sustainable farming and eco-friendly textiles.

Interesting Facts About Cotton

Of around 50 species of cotton, only four have been domesticated for their fiber, two from the Americas, one from Southern Africa, and one from India.

Cotton is the only plant that provides both food and fiber.

The fluffy white bolls produced by cotton plants are technically fruits, as they contain seeds. Oil extracted from these seeds is used in cooking.

Unlike many other textiles, cotton is stronger when wet, making it ideal for products like wet wipes, cosmetic pads, and other absorbent items.

Cotton is far more than just a fiber. It represents livelihoods, tradition, innovation, and development. World Cotton Day not only celebrates the global significance of cotton but also highlights the need for fair trade, sustainable practices, and innovation in the cotton industry. It is a day to honour the farmers, industries, and communities whose lives are woven with this remarkable crop.