The Ministry of Textiles recently launched a Certified Jute Seed Distribution Plan under the Jute ICARE Program. Initiated in 2019, this plan comes after the Jute Corporation of India (JCI) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Seeds Corporation for commercial distribution of 1,000 Metric Tonne certified jute seeds for the year 2021-22.
Certified Jute Seed Distribution Plan and Its Impact
The Certified Jute Seed Distribution Plan focuses on expanding the usage of certified seeds to enhance jute cultivation. The certified seed is the progeny of foundation seed, and its production is meticulously managed to maintain genetic identity and purity according to crop-specific standards. This plan aims to extend the benefits of certified seeds to nearly 5 lakh farmers.
The use of certified jute seeds has notably improved the quality of jute by one grade and increased productivity by 15%, thereby boosting the income of jute farmers approximately by Rs. 10,000/hectare.
Overview of the Jute ICARE Program
The Improved Cultivation and Advanced Retting Exercise for Jute (Jute ICARE) was launched in 2015. Spearheaded by the National Jute Board (NJB), the Central Research Institute for Research in Jute and Allied Fibres (CRIJAF), and the Jute Corporation of India (JCI), the programme aimed at mechanising jute farming for enhanced income generation.
Contributions towards the Jute Industry
Efforts such as providing 100% certified seeds at a subsidised rate, and demonstrating scientific jute cultivation practices for farmer adoption have significantly influenced the industry. Furthermore, the government’s support to 2.60 lakh farmers under the ICARE Program has played a crucial role in promoting the jute industry.
Other Initiatives to Propel the Jute Industry
Several other steps have been taken to promote the jute industry. The Minimum Support Price (MSP) for Jute was increased from Rs. 2400 in 2014-15 to Rs. 4225 in 2020-21. Additionally, the construction of 46,000 retting tanks has been approved to bolster productivity and income.
The Jute Packaging Materials Act, 1987, protects the interests of about 4 lakh workers and 40 lakh farm families by ensuring the compulsory use of jute packaging material.
Jute-based Innovations
In terms of technological innovation, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved a Technical Textiles Mission which includes Jute Geo-Textiles (JGT). JGT is a diversified jute product with applications in civil engineering, soil erosion control, road pavement construction, and river bank protection.
Jute SMART and Its Role in Transparency
An e-government initiative called Jute SMART was launched in December 2016 to enhance transparency in the jute sector by providing an integrated platform for procurement of sacking by government agencies.
Collaborative Efforts for Jute Industry
Collaboration between the National Jute Board and the National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad has led to the establishment of a Jute Design Cell for the development of Jute Shopping Bags and Lifestyle Accessories at the Innovative Centre for Natural Fibres (ICNF).
Understanding Jute Temperature, Rainfall, and Soil Type
Ideal conditions for jute cultivation include temperatures ranging between 25-35°C, rainfall of around 150-250 cm, and well-drained alluvial soil. India is the largest producer of jute mainly in eastern India due to the rich alluvial soil of the Ganga-Brahmaputra delta, with major jute producing states including West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, Assam, Andhra Pradesh, Meghalaya and Tripura.
Usage and Government Initiatives
Jute, referred to as the golden fibre, is used to make gunny bags, mats, ropes, yarn, carpets, and other artefacts. The Golden Fibre Revolution and Technology Mission on Jute and Mesta are notable government initiatives intended to boost jute production in India. Despite its numerous uses, jute faces stiff competition from synthetic fibres and packing materials, particularly nylon, due to its high cost.
