Question
Account for the causes of development of Jute textile industry on the Hugli basin? Discuss about the problems and prospects of the industry in West Bengal.
Answer
Causes of development of the Jute textile industry in the Hugli basin:
- Availability of raw material: West Bengal is one of the largest producers of jute in India and the Hugli basin has fertile soil which is suitable for growing jute.
- Availability of water: The Hugli River and its tributaries provide ample water for irrigation and processing of jute.
- Transportation: The Hugli River, along with the Kolkata port, provides easy access to transportation for importing raw materials and exporting finished products.
- Skilled labor: West Bengal has a large pool of skilled and unskilled labor, which makes it easier to operate the jute mills.
- Historical legacy: The jute industry has a long history in West Bengal, dating back to the British colonial period.
Problems and prospects of the industry in West Bengal:
- Competition from synthetic materials: The jute industry faces competition from synthetic materials, which are cheaper and more durable.
- Environmental concerns: The industry generates a significant amount of waste, which has a negative impact on the environment.
- The decline in production: The production of jute has declined in recent years due to the availability of alternative crops and lack of investment.
- Lack of modernization: The industry is still heavily reliant on outdated technology and equipment, which limits its competitiveness.
- Prospects for diversification: The industry can diversify by producing jute-based products such as paper, yarn, and biofuels.
