(a) whether the jute mill owners are not buying jute from the jute growers/ producers with a Minimum Support Price (MSP);
(b) if so, the details thereof along with the measures taken by the Union Government to provide MSP to jute growers in the country;
(c) whether the Government of West Bengal has approached the Union Government in this regard; and
(d) if so, the details thereof and follow up action taken thereon?
MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) IN THE MINISTRY OF TEXTILES (SHRI SANTOSH KUMAR GANGWAR)
(a) & (b): No, Madam. The jute mill owners are buying raw jute from jute growers/ producers at prevailing market price, which is higher than the Minimum Support Price (MSP). The Jute Corporation of India (JCI) Limited, a Central Public Sector Enterprises under the Ministry of Textiles undertakes Minimum Support Price (MSP) operations to buy raw jute from farmers to ensure that jute growers do not suffer by distress sale. The raw jute offered by growers is purchased at MSP by JCI through its 171 Departmental Purchase Centers (DPCs) and in association with the State Co-operatives located in different jute growing areas.
(c): No, Madam.
(d): Does not arise.