Jute production is likely to be lower this year on delayed rainfall, according to
Mr Atri Bhattacharya, Secretary, National Jute Board and Jute Commissioner, Ministry of Textiles.
Market sources estimate that there could be a 12 per cent drop in production of raw jute to 95 lakh bales (1 bale – 180 kg) this year, as compared with 108 lakh bales in 2011-12.
“Last year we saw a good crop on account of favourable weather and availability of seeds. This year, however, the crop is likely to take a beating due to delayed rain,” Mr Bhattacharya said at an interactive session on ‘Jute and Bengal’ organised by the Bharat Chamber of Commerce here on Monday.
Jute sowing usually starts by the end of March and continues up to the end of May. Sowing requires a hot and humid weather with regular bouts of showers. However, this year, the State did not receive adequate showers that are ideal for sowing.
However, the area under jute production is likely to remain the same, he said.
Jute industry, which is highly dependent on sacking, should look at innovation and diversification to improve its market. “There is a risk of being dependent on sacking alone as some markets such as Punjab are already looking for alternatives and are conducting pilot project for storing grains in silos,” he said.
The Rs 8,500-crore industry is facing a severe labour crunch, he said. “We are running out of labour as people are drawn towards employment under NREGA. We need to provide proper working conditions to help retain these labourers,” he added