Jute cultivation in Rajshahi has exceeded the government's target this season, reflecting renewed farmer confidence driven by strong market prices, favorable weather, and rising global demand for eco-friendly natural fibers. Lush green jute fields now stretch across the district, signaling a revival of the country's once-celebrated 'golden fiber.' With increasing international demand for sustainable alternatives to plastic and expectations of fair prices, more farmers have returned to jute cultivation.
Increased Hectarage and Production Targets
According to the Rajshahi Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), jute has been cultivated on 18,399 hectares of land this season, an increase of 1,094 hectares from last year's 17,305 hectares. The district has set a production target of 49,333 metric tons, up by 656 metric tons from last year's output of 48,677 metric tons. Officials expect the target is achievable due to favorable weather, adequate rainfall, sufficient soil moisture, and the use of improved seed varieties.
Market Prices and Farmer Sentiment
During a visit to Nowhata Jute Market earlier this week, jute was found selling at Tk 4,500 to Tk 5,000 per maund, encouraging early growers to expect profitable returns this season. Farmers across the district say the crop condition is better than last year but stress that improved retting facilities, adequate water, labor availability, and fair market prices remain crucial for sustaining interest in jute farming.
Farmer Testimonials and Government Support
Rabiul Islam of Paba Upazila, who cultivated early jute on four bighas of land, said his crop has grown well and harvesting will begin shortly. He noted that early varieties generally fetch better prices but emphasized the need for improved retting facilities and fair pricing. Saidur Rahman of Bagmara Upazila, who cultivated jute on five bighas, expressed optimism about achieving a good yield due to favorable weather. However, he urged greater government support for marketing and easier access to water for retting.
Expert Insights and Future Prospects
Deputy Director of the Rajshahi DAE Mohammad Nasir Uddin said the increase in cultivation reflects farmers' growing confidence in the crop. He attributed the expected production growth to improved seed varieties, favorable weather, and expanding farmer interest, adding that jute remains not only an important cash crop but also a key component of an environmentally sustainable agricultural economy. Md. Nadim Akhtar, Assistant Director of the Department of Jute in Rajshahi, said potential production this year is estimated at 381,696 quintals, compared with 360,494 quintals last year, indicating a possible increase of 21,202 quintals.
Global Demand and Economic Impact
Agriculture experts say the growing global demand for biodegradable products presents significant export opportunities for Bangladesh's jute sector. They believe that wider adoption of modern cultivation techniques, increased supply of improved seeds, enhanced farmer training, better marketing systems, and expansion of jute-based industries could further strengthen Rajshahi's contribution to national jute production. Farmers expect that along with increased production, if fair prices are ensured, golden fiber will once again become a key driver of economic prosperity for Rajshahi's farmers.
