Question : REDUCTION IN JUTE PACKAGING MATERIAL

(a) whether the Union Government is contemplating a reduction in the reserved percentage of jute packaging material under the Jute Packaging Material Act, 1987;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons for tapering down the mandatory quantity of jute packaging material to be used under the said Act;

(c) the number of jute workers and growers whose livelihood is likely to be affected by such a move;

(d) whether the Governments of Jute growing States were consulted in this matter, if so, the details thereof; and

(e) the assistance being provided to States for the diversification of the jute industry along with the funds allocated under the Jute Technology Mission in 2014-15?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) IN THE MINISTRY OF TEXTILES (SHRI SANTOSH KUMAR GANGWAR)

(a): No, Madam.

(b) to (d): Do not arise.

(e): Various steps have been taken for diversification of the jute industry. Some of the major steps taken are as under:-

i) The Jute Technology Mission (JTM) [2007-2013] was launched as a major initiative for the overall development of jute industry and the growth of jute sector with a total outlay of Rs.355.55 crores. Under the JTM, which was completed by 31.03.2013, several schemes were operational under the Mini Missions I, II, III & IV for the overall growth of jute sector. Mini Mission-IV provided for the modernization of jute industry, upgradation of skills, market promotion and exports which help increase demand of raw jute.

ii) Government of India encourages extensive research in jute in order to increase production of Jute Diversified Products (JDPs) and promotion of Jute Geotextiles (JGT). National Jute Board (NJB), a statutory body under the Ministry promotes the use of jute/jute products in the country and abroad.

iii) State Governments has been advised to promote use of jute geo-textiles in district roads and State Highways, in river embankments and in slope stabilization.

iv) For the year 2014-15, an amount of Rs.45.51 crores was released to National Jute Board for promotion of Jute Industry and its diversification.