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Fresh Investigation Uncovers Alleged Fraud in India’s Organic Cotton Sector

Date: February 4, 2026
Source: Ecotextile News
Author: John Mowbray

India’s organic cotton industry, centered in Odisha’s Kalahandi district, now faces sharp fraud claims. Witnesses allege that officials see forged documents, fake farmer records, and misuse of organic certification. Companies use these tricks to pass off ordinary cotton as organic.

Key Details:

• Investigating Bodies:
  India’s Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) and the Odisha State Organic Certification Agency (OSOCA) now lead the probe. They check facts and follow leads.

• Nature of Fraud:
  Companies take farmer names and records. They use false papers to get organic certification. They then mark non-organic cotton as organic. This fraud harms trust and breaks the supply chain’s promise.

• Implications for Market:
  India plays a key role in the global organic cotton market. Fraud risks consumer trust, export value, and eco claims. With tougher checks and open practices, industry growth may return.

• Context:
  Organic cotton helps nature with less pesticide use and improved soil health. Yet, fraud weakens the honest work in the field. The fresh probe calls for stricter oversight and clear rules.

Conclusion:

This investigation shines a light on the risks to India’s organic cotton reputation. Certification bodies, exporters, and regulators must work as one. They must restore trust and back fair practices in organic farming. The inquiry’s result may shape export rules and support sustainable agriculture.

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