14    FIBRE QUALITY NEEDS OF THE INDUSTRY

14.1    Cotton is an agricultural crop, which is in a class by itself. It has to undergo a mechanical process (ginning) before it becomes usable and acquires value. The second point worth remembering at planning stage is that cotton can only be spurn and, therefore, the requirements of the spinner regarding quantity as well as quality have got to be kept in view.

14.2    The textile industry of today is under two different pressures. Firstly, the sophistication of the machinery and secondly, the composition of raw materials used because of increasing use of man-made fibres. Both these aspects will have to be considered for a correct understanding of the raw material required.

14.3    The quality of cotton apparel has always been appreciated because of its absorbency, breath-ability and its unique feeling against the skin. However, cotton is constantly under pressure from man-made fibres.  

14.4    Cotton textile machinery is also changing. New and not so new spinning techniques have become popular. These yam-forming systems require cotton with different characteristics. Fabric forming systems have also undergone changes and advancements and require better quality as well as specific types of yarn. Fashion has its demands, which have to be met.  

14.5    Automation is rapidly gaining ground. According to Gilhaus (1984). “it is clear that for reason of profitability, automation is bound to increase still further”. Cotton breeders will have to consider the above carefully for better planning.  

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