To give priority to foodgrain production, the Union ministry of agriculture has decided to discontinue the technological missions for cotton and jute in the 12th five-year plan, to commence from April 1. [...”] there is no reason why the government will fund a crop to meet overseas demand,” was the explanation. State governments had also been advised to ensure development of genetic varieties in home-grown (desi) cotton. [...] “Most of the output is the Bt (genetically modified) variety —extra long staple. It is good for export and not for the general domestic demand. We do not have enough cotton for denim, babyware, towels, etc, which need the desi (and less costly) variety.”