VT

Varun TokasAIR 117

Question 14GS3GS1

Analyze the factors contributing to the concentration of the jute industry in eastern India. Also, discuss the key challenges currently faced by the industry. (Answer in 250 words)

Open scan (p.31)

Main Body

India produces 70% of the World's jute with most of it concentrated to the Hooghly delta in east India.

Factors contributing to concentration in East India:

1Fertile soil in Hooghly delta supports nutrient-intensive jute cultivation
2Bulky transport necessitates factories to be close to jute farms for efficient and economical production.
3Cheap labour due to high population density helps provide labour for factories
4Presence of historical basis and localization → jute cultivated in Bengal
5Suitable climactic condition with high rainfall and suitable temperature results in high-quality crop
6Hooghly Port serves as nearby hub to access international markets

However the industry faces challenges:

1Unprofitable economies of scale in factories → lead to factories selling at loss → IS/GO mills shutdown
2Low export competitiveness results in Indian exports being only 7% of total → Bangladesh → >70% global export.
3Textile demand of jute is falling affecting income → From 15% in 2000 to 9% in 2020
4Poor seed quality results in low quality crop → added competitiveness
5High influence by intermediaries added to cost → Mills do not buy directly from farmers.
6West Bengal faces electricity disruption affecting industrial output

Way forward:

Subsidy to scale procurement (done in Bangladesh)
Revival of "sick mills"
Establishing centres of excellence in jute production

The Jute Industry forms a cornerstone of Indian textiles and is crucial lovaface plastic pollution by synthetic fibes.

240 words4 paragraphs
  • Clear enumeration of locational factors
  • Addresses soil fertility, transport, and labour considerations
  • Mentions historical basis
  • Comprehensive enumeration of challenges
  • Specific statistics provided (7% vs >70%, 15% vs 9%)
  • Addresses supply, demand, and structural issues
  • Identifies practical solutions
  • References successful international model (Bangladesh)
  • Links jute to broader environmental concerns

Topper

Varun Tokas

AIR 117

Subject & Paper

GS3GS1

Topic

Distribution of Key Natural Resources across the world

Location of industries - primary, secondary, tertiary sectors in India

Jute industry concentration in East India

Writing Stats

240

Total words

4

Paragraphs

analytical and problem-focused

Tone