The project’s inaugural phase will focus on the major cotton-producing districts of Madhya Pradesh, with a special emphasis on small and marginal farmers and migrant labor engaged as cotton farmers with leased land. The project aims to ensure fair labor practices, social protection, and sustainable livelihoods for about 6.5 million cotton
farmers, about 40% of which are women.“This collaboration between CITI and the ILO is a significant stride towards creating a fair and equitable environment for our cotton farmers,” said Chandrima Chatterjee, Secretary General, CITI.
Targeting the cotton-rich districts of Madhya Pradesh, this project seeks to empower small and marginal farmers by enhancing their awareness of worker rights, providing technical support for policy
implementation, and improving access to crucial social protection schemes.
“By promoting FPRW, we aim to ensure that these hardworking individuals are recognized, respected, and able to thrive within the global supply chain,” Chatterjee said.The CITI-ILO collaboration will drive several key initiatives so that cotton growing communities are better aware and empowered to realize FPRW, responsible institutions, constituents and stakeholders able to ensure FPRW and stakeholders have better access to knowledge and tools to promote FPRW.