In view of challenge faced from cheaper prices of synthetics
substitutes, more thrusts
have been given on diversification of jute products.
Major aim of Diversification :- To enable jute based products to
make successful inroad in the Textiles Sector.
Thrust Areas of value-added diversified Jute Products :- Jute Handlooms
and Handicrafts, Non-woven and Industrial Application, Jute Rigid Packaging,
Decorative and Geo-Jute etc.
Intensive R & D efforts through various research institutes mainly
funded by Govt. of India have resulted in remarkable breakthrough in product
diversification . Prominent Products are :-
1.
Hydrocarbon free Jute Products for packing food grade products like
cocoa, coffee, shelled nuts etc;
2.
Major R & D works in Dref Spinning System;
3.
Production of jute blended yarns with jute as the major component—using
Jute/Viscose, Jute/Acrylic, Jute/Cotton—jute
content varying from 60 to 70% by
weight. Such yarns suitable for blankets, shawls, pullovers and as also thick
dress
materials;
4.
Production of fine blended yarns using Jute/Cotton, Jute/Silk, Jute/Wool
etc. for apparel use Jute Content is 30-40%.
Jute
based fabrics used particularly in areas of furnishing, upholstery, carpets,
blankets
and other home textiles. R & D Institutions have developed Jute Reinforced
Composites in the form of flexible, semi rigid sheet and rigid board to substitute
wood, timber, and plywood.
UNDP
jute programme has also facilitated diversification of jute sector by developing
new technology, promotion of employment opportunities by encouraging new
entrepreneurs to set up production units and development of indigenous machine
manufacturing sector . Some of the on-going projects are use of jute for paper
production , jute based needle-punched carpets, development of multi-component
yarn from wool, jute and other fibres for floor coverings blankets and knitwear.
National
Center for Jute Diversification (NCJD) is also providing infrastructural
facilities
by way assisting entrepreneurs, artisans, designers, manufacturers, NGOs.