December 11, 2013
WB Assembly adopts resolution against Centre`s jute policy
The West Bengal Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution against the Centre`s decision to dilute the use of jute bags.
A government resolution under Rule 169 was unanimously passed in the West Bengal Assembly protesting against the Centre`s decision on dilution of use of jute bags, while the House demanded the decision be withdrawn immediately to save the industry.
Moving the resolution in the House, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Mr. Partha Chatterjee said the issue was more sensitive in the state as it involved jute farmers of 15 districts, jute mill workers in five districts and 54 jute mills. He demanded the Centre should act immediately in the interest of jute farmers, workers and jute industry by withdrawing its decision on dilution of use of jute bags and allowing 100 per cent use of jute bags in all sectors. With dilution of use of jute bags by the Centre, its use has come down to 20 per cent from 40 per cent in sugar packaging, while in food grains it has come down to 90 per cent from the earlier 100 per cent and the gaps have been substituted by synthetic bags, he said.
Speaking on the resolution, state Labour Minister Mr. Purnendu Bose said the state government was contemplating a move to bring in a new jute policy.
