Question

Describe the geographical conditions necessary for the cultivation of jute.

Answer 1

Hint: Jute is a kharif crop which is usually sown in March- April. West Bengal, Assam, Odisha are the major kharif crop producing states.

Complete Answer:
- Jute is grown in hot and humid climates. It requires high temperatures varying from 24°C to 35°C and heavy rainfall of 120 to 150 cm with 80 to 90 percent relative humidity.
- During the period of its development pre- monsoon rainfall varying from 25 cm to 55 cm is very effective as it promotes in the proper development of the plant till the arrival of the proper monsoon.
- Continual and untimely rainfalls as well as increased droughts are harmful to this crop. Rainfall between 2.5 to 7.5 cm in a month, during the sowing period, is considered to be adequate.
- Periodic showers ranging from 2 to 3 cm at intervals of a week’s time during the growing period are very useful. Large quantity of water is required not only for growing the jute crop but also for refining the fibre after the crop is harvested.
- Light sandy or clayey loams are best suited soils for jute. Since jute rapidly exhausts the fertility of soil, it is crucial that the soil is stimulated annually by the silt-laden flood water of the rivers.
- Large supply of cheap labour is also essential for growing and processing the jute fibre.

Note:
- The largest jute generating state in India is West Bengal.
- The largest jute generating country in the world is India.
- The Acland Mill was the first jute mill established in India in 1855 by the Britishers.