Members belonging to the Indian cotton fraternity are planning a visit to Colombo to meet up with the port officials in that island country. The idea is to tide over any supply shortfall, particularly at the fag end of the season.

"It is very premature, but yes, we are in talks with the port officials seeking support for a raw material centre at Colombo port. Such a facility will help the mill sector in Tamil Nadu to import cotton more quickly, be it from West Africa, Australia or even the US," Srihari Balakrishnan, Managing Director, Sri Kannapiran Mills said, on the sidelines of the 37th Annual General Meeting of the Indian Cotton Federation (ICF).

Though the dates have not been finalised yet, the delegation, according to Srihari, would comprise of 4-5 members and looking to travel during October first week. "We are awaiting confirmation from Colombo Port officials."

ICF sources perceive that textile manufacturers in Tamil Nadu would benefit if the proposal comes through.

Earlier, in his presidential address, J Thulasidharan, President, ICF said the area under cotton in 2016-17 has been estimated to be lower by 10 per cent compared to the current year.

"China's fibre policy and release of old stock might tilt the global cotton demand and supply equation. Further, cotton supply could be tight due to the overall shortfall in acreage. It is therefore necessary to guide farmers on practising Precision Cotton Farming. Unless farmers are reassured of increased yield and better realisation, they will not undertake cotton cultivation. All stakeholders should work towards quality cotton supply," he added.

ICF Vice President P Nataraj stressed the need for a conducive cotton trade policy.

Cotton Scientist V Santhanam, who was co-opted as member, ICF at the 37th AGM of the federation suggested the need for a visit to China to understand the factors for increased productivity. "We should explore and understand," he reiterated

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