Lalmonirhat:After years of struggling with low market prices and rising production costs, jute farmers in Lalmonirhat are experiencing a resurgence as the price of the traditional 'golden fiber' reaches Taka 5,000 to Taka 5,100 per maund this season. This development has brought renewed enthusiasm and optimism to thousands of growers across the district.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the sharp increase in prices, accompanied by rising demand and increased competition among traders, has revitalized the local jute market. Farmers are now bringing their produce to markets in greater quantities, with hopes of better returns from what was once a struggling cash crop. In various markets across Sadar, Aditmari, and Kaliganj upazilas, as well as in Hatibandha and Patgram, good-quality jute is selling for up to Taka 5,100 per maund, attracting the attention of stockists, wholesalers, and ordinary buyers.
This positive shift contrasts with previous years when jute cultivation was becoming increasingly unprofitable in the northern region, including Lalmonirhat. Many growers had lost interest due to the inability to recover production costs. However, the current higher prices have restored confidence among farmers, even though excessive rainfall and flooding have affected plant growth and reduced yields in some areas.
Farmers and traders recall that jute was sold for around Taka 3,600 per maund during the same period last year. The current price increase of Taka 1,400 to Taka 1,500 per maund is providing substantial relief to growers amidst rising agricultural production costs. The Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) reported that jute was cultivated on 4,045 hectares of land in the district this season, exceeding the target by 35 hectares, and producing 8,857 tonnes of jute fiber.
Despite weather-related setbacks affecting production, the rise in market prices has mitigated the impact of lower yields, allowing many farmers to earn better returns than in previous seasons. Farmers like Afzal Hossain and Ali Hossain have expressed satisfaction with the current prices and the ease of processing due to abundant monsoon water, which facilitated the retting process.
Jute trader Kartik Pal noted that Lalmonirhat jute is known for its superior quality, and this year's strong prices have increased both supply and sales. Kabir Hossain, lessee of the jute trading section at Borobari Haat, observed that the market is livelier as farmers are encouraged by improved prices. Dr. Md Saikhul Arifin, Deputy Director of DAE in Lalmonirhat, mentioned that the department is supporting growers with quality seeds and other agricultural inputs.
The improved market conditions are bolstering farmers' confidence in jute cultivation, raising hopes that the golden fiber will once again become a significant source of rural income and economic activity in Lalmonirhat.