The Jute Manufacturers Development Council (JMDC), a statutory body under the textiles ministry, would promote diversified jute products, said Union textiles minister Dayanidhi Maran.
Inaugurating the four-day Jute Festival here , he said the ministry had earlier launched Jute Technology Mission, an initiative to revive the industry.
Under this, the ministry not only promotes new technical applications but also undertakes aggressive marketing of lifestyle products.
Maran also announced the opening of retail outlets for jute diversified products co-branded with JMDC. These outlets will sell high-quality products for customers in Chennai.
He said many units in the southern states had developed new variations, including super-softened jute composite fabrics and decorative items.