Textiles Ministry worried over jute import from Bangladesh

Rising jute import from Bangladesh is a matter of concern and the issue has been taken up with Commerce Ministry, Textiles Minister Santosh Gangwar said in Lok Sabha on Thursday. "Jute from Bangladesh is coming. We can stop it.

We have taken up the matter with Commerce Ministry. The import is rising every year and it is a matter of concern," he said replying to questions. Gangwar said jute sector plays an important role in India's economy, especially in the eastern parts, and supports the livelihood of around 40 lakh families.

The exports are to the tune of Rs 1800 cr annually. He said his ministry is also in talks with Agriculture Ministry to give more incentives to farmers producing and using quality seeds.

Gangwar lamented that he has not received any positive reply from West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee over his ministry's suggestions for encouraging the industry in the state, which produces over 80 percent of jute.

Three out of six mills in the state are closed and the Centre also needs cooperation from the state to remove encroachment from there.