Kolkata, 02 March (H.S.) : Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan chaired a comprehensive review meeting of institutes under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research in Kolkata, with a focus on strengthening the jute sector, improving agricultural sustainability and promoting fisheries-led rural development.

During the meeting, the minister reviewed key challenges affecting the jute industry, including raw jute quality, grading systems and water scarcity impacting farmers. He emphasized the need to improve grading accuracy, ensure fair pricing and enhance overall productivity in the sector through scientific and institutional support.

Chouhan also stressed the importance of diversifying jute products and expanding export opportunities. He said value-added jute products could significantly enhance farmers’ incomes and strengthen India’s position in the global natural fibre market. He called for a coordinated approach involving research institutions, industry stakeholders and government agencies to address the entire value chain from production to processing and marketing.

Highlighting the issue of water scarcity in jute-growing regions, the minister emphasized the adoption of efficient water management practices to ensure sustainable cultivation. He underlined the role of technological innovation and scientific intervention in improving fibre quality while reducing input costs for farmers.

Special emphasis was also placed on the fisheries sector as a major contributor to rural livelihoods in eastern India. The minister called for the expansion of inland fisheries, promotion of sustainable aquaculture practices and better utilisation of available resources to improve farmers’ income and nutritional security.

Promoting sustainable development, Chouhan stressed the importance of waste-to-wealth initiatives and called for converting agricultural and industrial waste into valuable resources as part of a circular economy approach.

The meeting reviewed the functioning of several ICAR institutes and regional centres in Kolkata engaged in research on natural fibres, jute and allied fibres, inland fisheries and agricultural technology dissemination. These institutions play an important role in developing improved jute varieties, managing inland fisheries and transferring agricultural technologies to farmers across the region.

Reiterating the government’s commitment to strengthening agricultural research and supporting farmers, the minister said innovation, diversification and integrated development strategies would be key to building a sustainable rural economy.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh