Krishnanagar(WB): Reduction in the rampant use of single-use plastic is the mantra of the day and the push regarding this by the Central government has been promising a new lease of life to the jute industry.
Jute cultivators, as well as finished product makers, are hoping that the Centre's move will help them in reviving the dying sector.
With single-use plastic products ranging from fast food wrappers to bulk carry bags becoming a norm in daily use, the question which has been looming large over the entire sector is, will jute be successful in replacing plastic?
In view of the huge impact on the plastic sector, if the decision to ban single-use plastic is taken in one go, the Centre has decided to gradually reduce the use of plastic and simultaneously increase the use of jute as an effective alternative.
The Nadia and North 24 Parganas districts of West Bengal have always been the core area of jute cultivation. In an effort to encourage and address the problems of jute cultivators, the Centre's Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices has asked the West Bengal Jute Commissioner to prepare a detailed report on the issues thwarting the sector and provide solutions.
The report will be the mainstay behind recommendations and further amendment in laws to secure the future of jute-based products on a large scale.
The issue of widespread malpractices in the once-bustling jute industry has already been highlighted by the central audit agency. The Commissioner's report is expected to focus on it and also ensure easy availability of adequate water and a variety of seeds for high yield jute cultivation.
Jute cultivators of Nadia are now pinning their hopes on the positive steps of both the Centre and the state government as they feel that increase in the demand of finished jute products will ultimately have its effect on the increase in the yield of jute cultivation.
The sheer number of people involved in the plastic products making industry is compelling the Centre to go slow on banning single-use plastic across the country. The key to the success of mitigating the plastic menace is a gradual decrease in the use of plastic products and simultaneous increase of jute and jute products.
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