agriculture review

The Golden Fiber: Exploring the Jute Industry

by aditya abhishek

Introduction

Jute is a long, soft, strong & shiny fiber that is derived from the jute plant. It is also known as the golden fiber due to its natural golden color and high commercial value.

History

Historic records show that people of Indus Valley civillization used to make textiles from jute. It was also a source of food for ancient Egyptians.

However, during 1800's, British entrepreneur George Acland & Bengali financier Babu Bysumber Sen  set up the world's  first Jute mill in Rishra, India. 

In the 19th Century, Jute became one of the most important cash crops of India. Millions of people living on borders of West Bengal & Bihar got employment due to growth of  the jute industry. 

Modern Era

India is still the largest producer & the second largest exporter of Jute in the world. There are total 75 functional jute mills in the country, out of which 60 mills are in West Bengal.

Jute fibers are used in a wide range of applications, from traditional uses such as making ropes, sacks and bags to modern uses such as clothing, home furnishings, and even geotextiles.

Due to new techniques, Jute can also be used to make environment friendly papers which could replace our depedency on wood pulp for paper.

Market

The total market value of the Jute bags industry in the world increased from $2.26 billion in 2022 to $2.59 billion in 2023. Well, have you used goods made from jute? If not, then try one today!

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