Weak monsoon likely to hit jute production

Delay in free seed distribution will also affect output

Raw jute production in West Bengal in the current year is likely to be hit due to lack of rainfall and as free jute seeds cannot be distributed to the four lakh farmers for fear of violating the model code of conduct with the assembly elections round the corner.

Jute production for 2005-06 was 80 lakh bales against the production projection of 90 lakh bales.

Industry experts predicted further decline in raw jute production during the current financial year, but could not provide an estimate of the shortfall, saying it was too early to do so.

However, according to a quick estimate, production for 2006-07 could be around 75 lakh bales.

"Based on the current situation, there is sufficient indications that raw jute production will be lower than the previous year.

Lack of rain and delay in jute seed distribution to farmers will take its toll on production," said Sanjay Kajaria, chairman of the International Jute Study Group.

Late March to mid-May is the peak sowing season in Burdwan, East and West Midnapore, Nadia, North and South 24-Parganas, Murshidabad and Malda districts.

The West Bengal government had reportedly approached the Election Commission to allow seed distribution under the Comprehensive Agriculture Development Programme, but in vain.

"Agriculture is time-bound and cannot be delayed, particularly in sowing, affecting a huge farming population.

The EC should have given a concession," an Indian Jute Mills Association member said. The step will result in lower production of raw jute further pushing up raw jute prices, which is already ruling very high at Rs 18 per kg.

Meanwhile, the high raw jute prices has affected export volumes. During 2005-06, export of jute goods was estimated to be lower by 20-25 per cent to Rs 700-750 crore.