Keeping in view the interests of more than four million jute cultivators across the country, the Indian Jute Mills Association (IJMA), the apex body of the jute industry in the country has sought the supply of certified seeds for the farmers for 2010-11.
IJMA has already given representations to the authorities concerned including the Union ministries of agriculture and textiles as well as the Jute Corporation of India to make arrangements for supply of certified seeds.
Besides, the industry body has sought a check on seed exports from the country and called for an end to speculative trading in the domestic market by the seed cartels of Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra.
IJMA has also drawn the attention of the Union ministries of agriculture and textiles to ensure availability of water, irrigation and other infrastructure facilities to the jute farmers for 2010-11.
This year, the jute sector initially grappled with deficient monsoons but bounced back later with a higher crop yield due to better rains.
On the infrastructure front, the jute industry has sought streamlining of issues pertaining to supplies of jute bags.
IJMA has suggested a third party assessment study on the problems and prospects of the procedures of procurement and logistics. The association is awaiting a positive response from the Union ministry of textiles and the Directorate General of Supply and Disposal (DGS&D) in this connection.
The association has also called for faster implementation of the Enhanced Capital Subsidy Scheme on Machinery Acquisition.
Acting on the recommendation of IJMA, the Union textiles ministry enhanced the capital subsidy per jute mill from Rs 75 lakh to Rs 3.5 crore but the scheme is yet to be implemented.
The jute industry has also pitched for an effective Export Incentive Scheme (EIS) in line with the Export Market Assistance Scheme.
The matter is being deliberated at all levels and the Jute Manufacturers Development Council (JMDC) is working with assistance from IJMA. An expert committee has been formed to prepare the scheme. An effective EIS is expected to help the jute industry to achieve its future export targets.
