Explanation:

Only statement 1st is correct.

Recently, the union finance minister announced a five-year mission to “facilitate significant improvements in productivity and sustainability of cotton farming, and promote extra-long staple (ELS) cotton varieties”.

• It is commonly hailed as the gold standard in textile manufacturing and holds a coveted position in the world of high-quality fabrics. 

• Most ELS cotton comes from the species Gossypium barbadense, commonly known as Egyptian or Pima cotton.

• ELS varieties boast fibre lengths of 30 mm and above.

Origin and distribution

• It originated in South America and today it is mainly grown in China, Egypt, Australia and Peru.

• In India, some ELS cotton is grown along rain-fed parts of Atpadi taluka in Maharashtra’s Sangli district, and around Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu.

• The warm temperatures and rich soil contribute to the growth of cotton fibres that are not only long but also uniform, resulting in stronger and finer yarns.

• It does not require intense finishing processes, which helps preserve these innate qualities.

Hence option 1st is correct.