IJMA Hails New Jute Bag Pricing Methodology

The Indian Jute Mills Association (IJMA) applauded the Cabinet's approval of a new pricing methodology for jute bags. This decision promises better pricing for mills, economic stability for jute farmers, and improved livelihoods for approximately 4 lakh workers in the jute industry.

The Indian Jute Mills Association (IJMA) has welcomed the Cabinet's recent approval for a new pricing methodology concerning jute bags used in packaging food grains. The new pricing model aims to provide enhanced rates for jute mills, fostering modernisation and diversification within the industry. The government has reinforced its commitment to purchasing 100 percent of food grains and 20 percent of sugar in jute bags, ensuring a stable market for jute producers, according to an IJMA statement.

The annual government purchase of jute bags, valued at Rs 12,000 crore, guarantees a secure market for jute farmers and workers, offering crucial economic relief and stability to the sector.

Approximately 4 lakh workers employed in jute mills and related trades are expected to benefit from this decision, leading to improved livelihoods and working conditions. The compulsory packaging norms also support the livelihoods of around 40 lakh farmer families involved in jute production, which will see further enhancement in their economic security and well-being with the revised pricing, IJMA noted. According to IJMA sources, the new pricing methodology has been a long-standing demand from the mill owners.

(With inputs from agencies.)