10    EXTRA LONG STAPLE (ELS) HYBRID AND ORGANIC COTTONS

10.1    PCCC sanctioned a research scheme in 1950 for research on production of ELS / Egyptian cottons. The scheme was located at Thatta, Sindh. After about ten years of research work the scheme could not achieve its objective and was closed down.

10.2    PCCC should think afresh regarding restarting the scheme with the new genetic engineering / tools available it may be possible to produce ELS cottons for import substitution. ELS cottons are needed for blending with polyester and spinning high counts thus producing quality fabrics, which are in great demand at home and abroad. It would be interesting to note that Egyptian cotton succeeded in Sudan when its planting time was changed form March to September. All what is needed here is research and more research.

10.3    Hybrid cottons should be looked at very seriously. Fibre length, strength as well as yield can be increased by hybridization. India, due to research and production of hybrid cottons has become a net exporter of ELS cottons.

10.4    In Pakistan hybrid cotton has not attracted as much attention as needed from the official circles. However, it is heartening to note that private sector has more than filled the gap.

10.5    Organic cottons deserve increased attention. Baluchistan is ideally suited for it. Serious attention should be paid to it.

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