IJSG Secretary General meets the representatives of the potential member countries to UN in New York on 17 August 2010

A meeting was held between the Secretary General of the IJSG and the Ambassadors/Representatives of the potential member countries to UN in New York on      17 August 2010. The purpose of the meeting was to introduce IJSG, its role and research activities for the development of Jute, Kenaf and other Allied Fibres. The meeting also focused on important issues of jute and jute economy, environmental and poverty alleviation aspects vis a vis the issue of membership of the Group.

The IJSG Council at its different Sessions emphasised on persuasion of the potential countries through appropriate diplomatic channels and appealing to them to join the Group as member. Therefore, the IJSG Secretariat requested the Ambassador and Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations H.E. Hardeep Singh Puri to organise the meeting as the IJSG’s member country.

At the outset, H.E. Hardeep Singh Puri explained the background and the importance of the meeting. He proposed IJSG to participate in ECOSOC meeting at UNHQ in 2012 or before the year IJSG renegotiation to be held at UNCTAD in Geneva and display their research activities and products which he thought to be effective in persuading the potential member countries to become members to IJSG. Thereafter Mr. Sudripta Roy, the IJSG Secretary General explained the mandate of the Group, current scenario and prospects of the natural fibres in the world market and detailed down the importance of joining IJSG as full members. He also mentioned that the goal of the IJSG clearly matches with Millennium Development Goals (MDG) of the UN regarding sustainable development, reversing the loss of environmental resources, empowerment of women etc.  Subsequently views were exchanged and most of the representatives participated in the discussion. They showed keen interest in the activities of the IJSG and agreed to take up the issue of the membership to their respective governments.

The meeting was attended by the delegates of the Permanent Representatives from Australia, Brazil, China, Costa Rica, Indonesia, Japan, Myanmar, New Zealand, Russian Federation, Serbia, South Africa, Thailand, Vietnam and USA which included Ambassadors of Bhutan, Nepal, Philippines, Sri Lanka and Vietnam as well as member countries representatives like Ambassadors – PR and Deputy PR of India, Permanent Representatives of EU and Switzerland together with representatives from Austria, Bangladesh, France, Italy, Netherlands and Spain .

For further information mail us at : info@jute.org

International Symposium on Renewable Feedstock for Biofuel and Bio-based Products held in Austin, USA on 11-13 August 2010

An International Symposium on Renewable Feedstock for Biofuel and Bio-based Products - the roles of non-food fibre crops: kenaf, jute, hemp, flax, and allied was held on 11-13 August 2010 at the AT&T Executive Education and Conference Centre of the University of Texas at Austin, USA.  The symposium was organised by the CCG International Inc. in collaboration with the School of Human Ecology in the University of Texas at Austin and supported by the Centre for Biorefining, University of Minnesota.  International Jute Study Group (IJSG) was the Golden Fibre Sponsor of the programme.

Mr. Sudripta Roy, Secretary General, IJSG was the member of the Technical Advisory Committee and made an initial remarks at the opening session of the symposium. Mr. Roy also presented a paper on Application of Natural Fibre (Jute) Products while another paper on Role of IJSG in Promoting Jute as a Natural Fibre was presented by Mr. Dewan Sayeedul Hassan, Media and Information Officer of the IJSG. Mr. Md. Faruque Hossain also made a poster presentation on the same subject matter.  

The use of renewable feedstock for biofuels and bio-based products has become imminent and has drawn public attentions and industrial investments to a large extent. With favourable national energy policies to develop a green industry and protect the environment, plant-based biomass becomes a centre of thoughts on the production of value-added and environmentally-friendly bio-based products, including biofuels.

The Symposium focused on non-food feedstock which has high biomass productivity, less production inputs, and no competition with food crops, including but not limited to kenaf, jute, hemp, flax, ramie, switch grass, willow, crop residues, wood chips, etc. which mostly covered: applications of plant fibers in textile, paper pulp, biofuel, auto-mobile, construction, packaging, animal feed and environmental cleaning, etc.; new technologies for converting bast fibres into value-added products, such as processing techniques, pretreatments for fibre extraction, evaluation tools for fibre quality, and improved production technologies; production and supply of feedstock for biofuels and bio-based products, including cultivation practice, harvesting and processing, mechanisation, storage, new variety and biotechnology; marketing, supply chain, and quality control of fibres; networking with producers, end users, experts, business developers, investors, governmental officials, and international agencies around the world; exploring investment opportunities, international collaborations, and new project development; promoting environmentally-friendly products and policy and improve regional economy through poverty alleviation.

Researchers, producers, end users, business developers, investors and policy makers from around the world attended the symposium to delve into the values of non-food fibre crops in contributing a better environment and the bioeconomy.

For further information mail us at : info@jute.org

The IJSG Secretary General Mr. Sudripta Roy met Mr. Robert Furolo, MP, Mayor, City of Canterbury, NSW and the officials of Department of State and Regional Development, NSW on 26 July 2010 as a part of visit to Australia and New Zealand from 23 July to 3 August 2010. Mr. Roy was accompanied by the Finance and Administrative Officer (F&AO) of the IJSG Mr. Md. Faruque Hossain. The Secretary General explained the various applications of jute and urged the people of Australia from all walks of life to use biodegradable and environment friendly products in their day to day requirements to maintain safe and sound environment. In response to the appeal of the Head of the IJSG, Mr. Robert Furolo said that he was aware about the benefits of using jute products and interested in promoting this natural fibre in his region. He also welcomed the proposal of the Secretary General in organizing a seminar; exhibition and fashion show and assured all sorts of support in making the event successful.

The IJSG Secretary General found similar interest while he was discussing in the meeting with Michael O'Sullivan, Director, International Markets and Trade and Mr. Paul Judge, Senior Manager, Agribusiness, Department of State and Regional Development, NSW held in MLC Centre on the same day. Mr. Md. Jashim Uddin, Chief Executive, Trade World SS (Associate Member of the IJSG) was also present in both the meeting. The meeting was supposed to be held with Mr. Frank Sartor, MP, and Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, NSW. He suddenly became busy with election campaign but hoped to discuss the issues in future in any convenient time. The NSW Trade and Investment Centre officials expressed their keen interest to work with the IJSG and host a seminar to promote jute and kenaf to the potential growers and users, in early 2011. They opined that the seminar could take place in their NSW Trade and Investment Centre, L47 MLC Centre, 17 Martin Place, Sydney, or possibly in a suitable regional location, such as Wagga Wagga or Albury. 

The Secretary General and F&AO called on His Excellency LT General Masud Uddin Chowdhury, the High Commissioner of Bangladesh in Canberra on 27 July 2010. They discussed the prospects of jute in the context of present global necessity and invention of jute genome. The High Commissioner assured the Secretary General to give all-out support to arrange any promotional activities to be undertaken by the IJSG in Australia and New Zealand. Mr. Azhar Huq, Commercial Counselor & HOC Bangladesh High Commission, Canberra, Australia and Mr. Md. Jashim Uddin, Chief Executive of the Trade World SS were also present in the meeting. The IJSG delegate also visited CSIRO, Canberra on the same day and observed the germplasm of jute, the outcome of research of the erstwhile IJO project which was kept in CSIRO as replica storage. Afterward the Secretary General and F&AO met the CSIRO officials at their meeting room. During the discussion the Secretary General expressed his satisfaction on preservation of the germplasm of jute and he mentioned some points regarding its further research by interested institutes or persons, application by the interested growers and suppliers to the institutes those who show interest to have this germplasm for their experimental purpose. The CSIRO officials informed that the germplasm required to be examined whether they are still functional or not. Apart from this the germplasm may be provided anywhere with the consent of the IJSG subject to the compliance of the quarantine policy of the Australian Government. Mr. Chris Malouf, Strategic Advisor and Ms. Liza Apps of CSIRO were present in the meeting on behalf of CSIRO.

During their visit to New Zealand, the IJSG officials attended a meeting with Ms. Bernadette Casey, Director, Ataahua World, a Design Studio of Natural Fibre based in Wellington of NZ and other officials as well as Mr. Mark Hildesley, P.E. (USA) of Material Optimizing Ltd. based in Auckland, New Zealand. Both the entities have shown their interest on jute and expressed their commitment to work with the natural fibres like jute in their respective field.

Meeting with Mr. Robert Furolo, Mayor, City of Canterbury, NSW

Meeting with the officials of the Department of State and Regional Development, NSW

Meeting with His Excellency the High Commissioner of Bangladesh in Canberra, Australia

Meeting with CSIRO in Canberra, Australia

Meeting with the officials of Ataahua World, Wellington

Meeting with Mark Hildesley, P.E. (USA)

For further information mail us at : info@jute.org

International Jute Study Group (IJSG)

Request for Expression of Interest (EOI) For Consulting Services (Individual Consultant) for Evaluation of the Activities of the IJSG

Background

The International Jute Study Group (IJSG) is an intergovernmental body set up under the aegis of UNCTAD with Headquarters in Dhaka, Bangladesh to function as the International Commodity Body (ICB) for Jute, Kenaf and other Allied Fibres. It formally entered into force on 27 April 2002. The IJSG is the legal successor to the erstwhile International Jute Organisation (IJO). Bangladesh, India, Switzerland and European Union comprised of 27 Countries are its Members. The IJSG has the mandate for sustainable development of the global jute sector incorporating a larger role for the private sector and focusing on development of new applications/usage, commercialisation, and poverty alleviation. The IJSG works closely with national governments, international agencies and the private sector.

Since its inception the International Jute Study Group has implemented a number of projects and undertaken some activities for the development of the world jute/kenaf economy. In the present scenario, apart from the traditional uses of jute/kenaf, large number of diversified products have been and are being developed and widely accepted/used by the global community. There are increasing global concerns about the environment and people are becoming more inclined towards jute, kenaf and other allied fibres and it has become imperative to promote jute for sustainable development. In accordance with the commitment of the world community towards a pollution free environment, many countries are promoting the use of natural fibres in new applications. It is, therefore, necessary to exchange ideas, form a concerted opinion and synergise the efforts of all countries concerned for promotion of natural fibres. United Nation’s General Assembly had declared 2009 as the International Year of Natural Fibres which was observed, globally coordinated by the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. IJSG played a vital role in Observance of the IYNF 2009 as a member of the IYNF Steering Committee. Recently Bangladeshi scientists have decoded the Genome of jute that will facilitate in boosting production and also bringing about changes in the attributes of jute which may be utilised in finding out various new applications of jute. In this backdrop where there is indication of possible increase in demand of jute products in the world market that the existence of such an International Commodity Body like IJSG is inevitable for looking after the global and multinational issues related to jute, kenaf and allied fibres. 

The IJSG Council has decided to evaluate the IJSG activities for the period from 27 April 2002 to 30 June 2010. As per the existing Agreement Establishing the Terms of Reference (ToR) of the IJSG the tenure of the group expired on 26 April 2010. The Council at its Tenth Session extended the tenure of the IJSG up to 26 April 2012 in compliance with the provision of the ToR. The evaluation report of the Consultant will be an important document to identify the strength and weakness of the IJSG in materialising the process of renegotiation of the ToR of the IJSG for its future continuation.

In view of the above the International Jute Study Group (IJSG) invites eligible Applicants to indicate their interest in providing the services in accordance with the following ToR.

Terms of references (ToR)

 Objectives:

1. To appraise the importance of jute and other allied fibres of the socio-economic aspect of the producing countries as well as its contribution to the sustainable development global environment protection.

2. To assess the benefits of the Member Countries obtained from the activities during the period and the benefits to be received in future.

3. To provide an overview of the present role and activities of the IJSG.

4. To identify the new possibilities to make the IJSG more effective and more functional.

5. To make options and recommendations for potential future development of the International Jute Study Group.

Requested Services

I.       The Consultant will undertake an in-depth evaluation of the IJSG activities and compare their conformity with the objectives and functions of the Group as set out in paragraphs 3 and 4 of the Agreement Establishing the Terms of Reference of the International Jute Study Group (IJSG).

II.      In the evaluation process, the Consultant shall cover, inter alia, the following areas:

(a) The role of the IJSG in providing effective framework for international cooperation, consultation and policy development among members with regard to all relevant aspects of the world jute economy; at the same time its role with respect to maintaining relationship with relevant UN, International Organisation, Donor Agencies, other  ICBs etc;

(b) The impact of IJSG activities in raising the socio-economic growth of the stakeholders in Member Countries focusing on both tangible and non-tangible benefits;

(c) The role and the activities of the Private Sector Consultative Board (PSCB) in compliance with its objectives;

(d)  The outcome and impact of the projects and activities implemented and supervised by the IJSG;

(e) Progress reports of on-going, pipe line and future projects and activities of the IJSG;

(f) The IJSG website and its effectiveness to the stakeholders of jute and the IJSG;

(g) The effectiveness of the promotional activities like national and international seminars/symposium/conferences/fairs organised/participated and video films  on jute produced and shown by the IJSG ;

(h) The professional approaches and representations made by the IJSG at various national and international fora to further the cause of jute and the IJSG;

(i)  The role played by the IJSG in holding of discussions, meetings, drives for increasing Membership;

(j)  Conducting comprehensive survey of the stakeholders regarding their views on the existing activities of the IJSG;

(k) The functioning of the IJSG Secretariat taking into consideration of the existing manpower. 

 Expected Results

(a)  The Consultant will analyse the achievements and suggest measures for future standpoint of development of the jute sector and the IJSG including overcoming the prevalent challenges.

(b)  A general evaluation of the role played by the IJSG as an ICB in relation to the sustainable development of natural fibres for environment protection of the world. The Consultant will also highlight the fact of the necessity of strengthening the functions of the IJSG by the participation of the potential Member Countries.

(c)  The Consultant will examine the benefits of the Member Countries obtained from the activities during the period.

(d)  The Consultant will appraise the new possibilities to make the IJSG more effective.

Qualification and Experiences of the Consultant

Interested Applicants are invited to provide information (brochures, description of similar assignments, experience in similar operating conditions, adequacy for the assignment and resources etc.) indicating that they are qualified to perform the requested above mentioned Services as the Consultant who will be selected on the basis of their qualifications and experiences for the assignment. Interested Consul Applicants may obtain ToR & further information from the Secretariat of the IJSG.

(a) Applicants must have 15 years experience in evaluation of various development projects and promotional activities/programmes implemented by National/International Organisation(s)/International Commodity Body (ies) of the relevant field.

(b) Experience of similar assignment in the last five years with Donor Agencies/International Organisations.

(c) Educational qualification: Excellent Academic background and work experience in the area of Economics, experience in international agricultural commodity chains and public-private partnership.

(d) Excellent analytical capacity as demonstrated by publications, studies and/or research on the subject.

(e) Applicants are invited to provide information in a complete CV indicating that he/she is qualified to perform the services.

Closing Date of Submission of EOI

 EOI with financial offer shall be submitted addressing to the Secretary General, International Jute Study Group, 145 Monipuripara, Dhaka or through E-mail: info@jute.org; fin.adm@jute.org within 30 August 2010.

Commencement and Completion

The Consultant will commence his/her work within first week of October 2010 and will make available the first Draft Evaluation Report to the International Jute Study Group (IJSG) by the last week of December 2010 for circulation to the Members. The Consultant will also revise the Draft Evaluation Report as per comments/suggestions made by the IJSG and its Members, if any. The Consultant will have to submit the Final Evaluation Report to the IJSG latest by February 2011.

Required Information/ Documents

The IJSG Secretariat will provide the relevant information and documents as may be required from time to time during the course of evaluation.

Special Instruction

Only short listed Applicant(s) will be contacted for interview. The IJSG reserves the right to accept or reject any or all of the EOI without assigning any reason whatsoever.

Sudripta Roy

Secretary General

International Jute Study Group

For further information mail us at : info@jute.org

PEA and IJSG team visit Berhampore

Md. Fazlul Huq, Project Executing Agency (PEA) of the Small Scale Entrepreneurship Development in Diversified Jute Products Project visited the project site at Berhampore, India during 3-4 June 2010 alongwith Dr. Latifa Binte Lutfar, Operations Officer and Md. Faruque Hossain, Finance and Administrative Officer.  

A Beneficiaries Meet was organised at the Jute Entrepreneurs Service Centre (JESC)/Jute Service Centre (JSC), Berhampore on 3 June, 2010 which was attended by 50 small entrepreneurs developed by the centre. A number of prospective entrepreneurs introduced themselves who were trained by the JSC, Berhampore subsequent to the completion of the project. Many of the entrepreneurs developed under this project are now acting as trainers and are providing training to new groups of potential entrepreneurs. Later Dr. Lutfar and Mr. Huq inaugurated a Handloom Production Unit and a Wet Processing Unit set up by Bhabna Association for Peoples Upliftment (BAPU) under the Loan Component of the said project.

The IJSG team visited the Wet Processing and the Handloom Production Unit being set up by Sahanaj Khatun at Islampur under the Loan Component of the Project on the following day. The team also visited the Handloom Production Unit being set up by Md. Pappan Hamid at Islampur under the Loan Component of the Project.

For further information mail us at : info@jute.org

IJSG Secretary General inaugurates painting exhibition in Dhaka

A month-long painting exhibition of Kazi Sayed Ahmed and Sarkar Nahid Niazi Nipu has begun on 15 May 2010 at Nordic Club, Gulshan, Dhaka. Mr. Sudripta Roy, Secretary General of the International Jute Study Group (IJSG) was present as Chief Guest and inaugurated the exhibition. Mr. Dewan Sayeedul Hassan, Media and Information Officer and Mr. Md. Faruque Hossain, Finance and Administrative Officer of the IJSG were also present.

The works of Kazi Sayed Ahmed, being of different style, are rich in tactile qualities characteristics of sculpture. He makes his paintings innovative by composing an orchestra of the direct and true matters, which remain invisible, with those visible. Sarkar Nahid Niazi Nipu is a modernist with a slant towards the topographic beauty of the surface. Her work is a certain kind of surrealistic. 14 works on jute by Mr. Sayed and 18 works on wood by Ms. Nipu are being displayed.

For further information mail us at : info@jute.org

EU Delegation to Bangladesh Celebrates Europe Day

The European Union (EU) Delegation to Bangladesh organised the festivities for the European Day on 9 May 2010 at the Bashundhara Convention Centre in Dhaka. The celebration is a major annual event for the European Union which aims to promote cultural exchange between the EU and Bangladesh. Certain aspects of rich Bangladeshi culture were presented on the occasion that included fusion food competition, photo exhibition, drawing competition and fashion show.

As a major part of their promotional activity, EU invited International Jute Study Group (IJSG) to participate in the “Craft Village” to exhibit jute and kenaf products during the event. IJSG participated in the event along with four other entrepreneurs of Bangladesh: Esheeta, Evan’s Products, Shohag Jute & Handicrafts and Sonar Bangla Crafts. The entrepreneurs displayed jute products like bags, shoes, apparels, floor mat, cushion covers, curtains, lamp shade, wrapping papers, greetings cards, etc.

The visitors showed keen interest about the research initiatives, publicity materials and publications of the International Jute Study Group displayed at the IJSG stand, specially about the recently published book on Jute - “Jute Basics”.

For further information mail us at : info@jute.org

Workshop on the Technologies developed by IJIRA and SITRA held in Kolkata

The Private Sector Consultative Board (PSCB) of the IJSG organized a day long Workshop on the technologies developed by Indian Jute Industries’ Research Association (IJIRA) and the South India Textile Research Association (SITRA) - two premier research institutions along with presentation from Lagan Engineering Co. and INDICON of India at the IJIRA Conference Room, Kolkata, India on 06 May with the aim to disseminate the technologies developed relating to jute composites, agro textiles, jute processing machinery, eco-friendly processing & eco-compliance of jute products.  

Mr. Manish Poddar, Chairman of IJMA, Mr. Sudripta Roy, the Secretary General of IJSG, Mr. Binod Kispotta, Jute Commissioner of India, Mr. DC Baheti, Chairman of PSCB, Mr.Humayun Mazhar, Vice-Chairman of PSCB and Mr. Amitava Poddar, Acting Director of IJIRA spoke on the occasion.

The IJSG Secretary General Mr. Roy in his speech emphasized on the importance and necessity of such a workshop for the development of jute sector. He remarked that as jute is a versatile fibre more attempts are to be made to produce diversified jute products. Side by side improvement of traditional jute products. Mr. Roy informed that at the moment there are 105 Associate Members of the IJSG from 17 countries.

Dr. S.K. Chakrabarti, Biochemistry Division, Mr. P.K. Choudhury, Technical Division, S. Das and Dr. B.C. Mitra, of IJIRA, Mr. A Shivaramakrishnan of SITRA, Mr. Anirudh Kazaria, Managing Director, LAGAN Engineering Company Limited and Mr. S Palit, INDICON presented papers in the Workshop. Papers on Eco-Processing and Eco–compliance of Jute, Carbon Credit of  Jute, Jute Agrotextiles-its Properties & Applications, Present Status & Future Trends of Jute Composites, Modifications in jute flyer spinning machine by SITRA, The Future of Jute Processing, Stitchbonding & Rotor spinning presented during the workshop.

Representatives of jute industry, research institutes and enterprises concerned with jute trade from Bangladesh, India, Nepal and Pakistan attended the workshop.

Inaugural Session

Technical Session

·         Eco-Processing and Eco–compliance of Jute

·         Carbon Credit of  Jute

·         Jute Agrotextiles-its Properties & Applications

·         Present Status & Future Trends of Jute Composites

·         Modifications in jute flyer spinning machine by SITRA

·         The Future of Jute Processing

·         Stitchbonding & Rotor spinning

For further information mail us at : info@jute.org

The Council appoints Bhupendra Singh of India as the next Secretary General

The two-day Eleventh Session of the Council of the International Jute Study Group (IJSG) held at its Secretariat in Dhaka ended on May 3, 2010. The Council, the highest authority of the IJSG discussed establishment matters as well as administrative and financial matters of the Group. A series of important issues including membership of the Group, development of market for jute products, assessment of world jute situation and other related matters were discussed during the Session.  The Council focused on the involvement of the private sectors and underlined the need to strengthen the Private Sector Consultative Board (PSCB) by increasing the number of Associate Members which can contribute to the improvement of the jute economy. It was decided that IJSG should continue its promotional activities, keeping informed the concerned people through statistical analysis of the world jute situation.   

The Council appointed Mr. Bhupendra Singh of India as the next Secretary General of the International Jute Study Group for a period upto 26 April 2012 with effect from 01 October 2010.  Ms Rita Menon, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles, Government of India and Mr. Emdadul Haque, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Textiles and Jute, Government of Bangladesh was elected as Chairman and Vice-Chairman, respectively, of the IJSG Council for the jute year 20010/20011.

All Members of IJSG - Bangladesh, India, Switzerland, and European Union representing its 27 Member States attended the Session. Representatives of Associate Members from Bangladesh, India and EUROJUTE were present during the meeting. Representatives of Malaysia, Pakistan and the Russian Federation also attended the Session as Observers.

For further information mail us at : info@jute.org

Book on Jute-JUTE BASICS

Now Available

For Information mail us at: projects@jute.org

IJSG launches the Book - Jute Basics

The Launching Ceremony of the Book -Jute Basics, published by the International Jute Study Group (IJSG) was held on 02 May 2010 at the IJSG Conference Room at Dhaka. Mr. A F M Sarwar Kamal, former Secretary General of the IJSG launched the book as the Chief Guest.

Presided over by Mr. Sudripta Roy, Secretary General of the IJSG, Mr. Md. Ashraful Moqbul, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles and Jute, Govt. of Bangladesh and Head of Bangladesh Delegation, Ms Rita Menon, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles, Govt. of India and Head of Indian Delegation and Mr. Enzo Barattini, Director General, Development and Relations with African, Caribbean and Pacific States, European Commission and Head of the Delegation of EU spoke on the occasion. The speakers congratulated IJSG for publishing such a comprehensive book on jute of international standard which contains jute agriculture, mechanical and chemical processing of jute, jute products, eco status of jute, market of jute, strategy for the jute sector etc. along with product gallery and glossary.

In his opening remarks the IJSG Secretary General said that the publication is indented to be treated as a handbook for jute and to introduce jute with its versatile attributes to the prospective consumers and the environmentally conscious people of the world. He informed that the price of the book is Tk. 2000 in Bangladesh, Rs. 1500 in India and US$ 100 for the rest of the world.

The chief guest Mr. Sarwar Kamal said that Jute Basics is a complete package containing a lot of information on jute. The endeavour of the IJSG is indeed commendable which would help improvement of the jute sector. Mr. Kamal hoped that higher research work may be added to the new addition of the book and suggested that IJSG may take initiative to publish another book on kenaf and its application.

Mr. Ashraful Moqbul, Secretary, Ministry of Textile and Jute, Government of Bangladesh said that the core information contained in the book would enable readers to understand what jute is all about and its various usages.

Ms Rita Menon, Secretary, Ministry of Textile, Government of India said that the book would fill the knowledge gap in the jute sector and hoped that the universities, research institutes, governments would subscribe to this book. She also suggested for posting all the chapters of the book on the web to make it economic and user-friendly especially for the younger generation.

Mr. Enzo Barattini mentioned that millions of people are engaged in the jute sector and EU always wanted to be active to do their best for the development of jute commodity. He hoped that this book would be popular among the stakeholders of the jute sector and people interested in natural fibres like jute.

The programme was attended by the govt. officials, diplomats, industrialists, entrepreneurs, scientists, researchers and other dignitaries of the jute sector. After the formal launching of the book, a grand jute fashion show by Emdad Hoque was arranged.

For further information mail us at : info@jute.org

National Jute Board of India commences its operation

The National Jute Board, a Statutory Body set up by the National Jute Board Act, 2008 Act No.12 of 2009 under the administrative control of the Ministry of Textiles, Govt. of India has commenced operation with effect from the 1 April 2010. The Board has been constituted by merging the two organizations, Jute Manufactures Development Council (JMDC) - a Statutory Body set up by Jute Manufactures Development Council Act 1983 and the National Centre for Jute Diversification (NCJD) - a Society set up by the Central Government and registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860. These two organizations have legally ceased to be existent with effect from the 1 April 2010. All future communications meant for JMDC and NCJD may now be addressed to:

NATIONAL JUTE BOARD

Ministry of Textiles, Government of India

3 A&B, Park Plaza, 71, Park Street, Kolkata — 700 016

Fax: 033-2217 2456

E-mail: jute@njbindia.com

For further information mail to : jute@njbindia.com

Al Naouri and his partners for import and export of Zarqa, a city in Jordan located to the northeast of Amman has become the Associate Member of the International Jute Study Group (IJSG) recently. The main activity of Al Naouri is to import jute cloth and jute bags. 

It may be mentioned that currently IJSG has more than hundred Associate Members with representation from Bangladesh, Germany, India, Ivory Coast (Cote de Ivore), Japan, Nepal, Pakistan, Switzerland, USA, Vietnam, Malaysia, Russia, Korea, United Arab Emirates (UAE), United Kingdom (UK), and Syria.

For further information mail us at : info@jute.org

Secretary General meets Chairman of the Amman Chamber of Commerce

Mr. Sudripta Roy, the Secretary General of the International Jute Study Group (IJSG) met Mr. Riad Saifi, the Chairman of the Amman Chamber of Commerce (ACC) and Muhannad L. Attar, Director General on 3 March 2010 at the office of the ACC. Mr. Roy briefed them about the activities of the Group.  The ACC delegates showed interest to work very much with the IJSG to rejuvenate the jute sector.    Mr. Riad Saifi informed the IJSG Secretary General that his family was engaged with the jute trading business for many years and he hoped that the importance of jute will again realized by the world community. The Finance and Administrative Officer of the IJSG Mr. Md. Faruque Hossain was present during the meeting. 

On the same day, the Secretary General and Finance and Administrative Officer of the IJSG met His Excellency Mr. Golam Muhammad, Ambassador, Embassy of Bangladesh in Amman at his workplace and discussed various issues regarding the world jute market and status of the producing countries. Subsequently a meeting was held with the jute traders of Amman namely Konooz Al-Sharq, Waleed Hani Hadad, Jamal & Abd alhadi Fatah and others at the conference room of the Embassy of Bangladesh in Amman. His Excellency Mr. Golam Muhammad, the Ambassador and Mr. Toufiq Islam Shatil, First Secretary, Embassy of Bangladesh in Amman attended in the meeting.

For further information mail us at : info@jute.org

Workshop on Jute Based Composite Material (JUTIN) held at IJSG

A Workshop on Jute Based Composite Material (JUTIN) was held on 15 March 2010 at the Conference Room of the International Jute Study Group (IJSG), Dhaka under the Chairmanship of Mr. Sudripta Roy, the Secretary General of IJSG. The workshop was organized under the auspices of the Private Sector Consultative Board (PSCB) of the IJSG. Dr. Stefan Frowein, the Ambassador of the Delegation of the European Union to Bangladesh was present in the workshop as the Chief Guest.

“JUTIN”, a corrugated sheet made of jute Hessian cloth and formulated solution of polymer materials, has been developed by a research group of Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission (BAEC) under the supervision of Dr. Mubarak Ahmed Khan, Chief Scientific Officer, Radiation and Polymer Chemistry Laboratory. JUTIN can be used as an alternative to the available metal based corrugated sheets.

The workshop was organized to disseminate the technology to the prospective entrepreneurs for commercial uptake. Dr. Stefan Frowein, spoke highly of the technology and expressed his hope that commercial application of the technology would be very useful and affordable for the poor people particularly for the people of the disaster prone area of Bangladesh.

Mr. Sudripta Roy in his remarks emphasized the importance of the technology and its overall impact on the society and the jute sector. He strongly pointed out that the technology needs to be taken up and the concerned people should come forward to stand by the indigenous technologies developed by our scientists and technologists.

Dr. Mubarak explained that about 30-40 percent jute is used in JUTIN which makes it eco-friendly. The main characteristics of JUTIN are that it is rust proof, bio-degradable and will not pollute the environment. It will be particularly useful for the coastal areas as it will not be adversely affected by saline water. Houses made of JUTIN will be more comfortable because of its low thermal conductivity. The commercial manufacturing of JUTIN will play a major role in the jute sector of Bangladesh and it is perceived that golden days of jute will be restored.     

For further information mail us at : info@jute.org

Secretary of Ministry of Textiles and Jute, Government of Bangladesh meets IJSG Secretary General

Mr. Md. Ashraful Moqbul, Secretary of the Ministry of Textiles and Jute, Government of Bangladesh met Mr. Sudripta Roy, the Secretary General of the International Jute Study Group (IJSG) at his office on 9 March 2010.  They discussed issues related to various aspects of the world jute economy, market promotion, exchange of information, active participation of the private sector in the development of the jute sector as well as the membership issue of the Group.

The IJSG Secretary General shared the experience with the Secretary of his recent visit to Syria and Jordan. While talking to the Jordanian Traders, he noticed that there are some obstacles as regards trading of jute products between Bangladesh and Jordan which may be solved through discussion by both the countries. The issue of renegotiation of the IJSG according to the Agreement establishing the ToR of the International Jute Study Group, 2001 also came up during the talk as a key challenge for the future of the jute sector. 

Mr. Md. Faruque Hossain, Finance and Administrative Officer and Mr. Dewan Sayeedul Hassan, Media and Information Officer of the IJSG were present during the discussion.

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Seminar on jute held in Damascus, Syria

A daylong International Seminar on jute related aspects was jointly organized Private Sector Consultative Board (PSCB) of the International Jute Study Group (IJSG) in collaboration with the Damascus Chamber of Commerce (DCC) in Damascus, Syria on 28 February 2010. Mr. Sudripta Roy, the Secretary General of the IJSG chaired the seminar and was addressed by the Vice President of the DCC.

Members of the Damascus Chamber of Commerce and other participants from both public and private sector of Syria, India and Bangladesh attended the Seminar. There was open discussion on several jute related aspects and the participants showed keen interest in traditional as well as diversified jute products for various uses.

A meeting with the private entrepreneurs was held in Aleppo, Syria on 01 March 2010. The jute business houses discussed the problems of supply of jute from India and Bangladesh and requested IJSG to help in streamlining the process. IJSG team requested the private sector of Syria to join the PSCB to ensure greater co-ordination between the importers and exporters.

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Seminar on Eco-Friendly Pulp and Paper Processing from Jute held in Dhaka

The Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) organized a seminar on Eco-Friendly Pulp and Paper Processing from Jute held at DCCI on 23 February 2010. Mr. Dilip Barua, Minister for Industries, Government of Bangladesh was present as the chief guest and       Mr. Sudripta Roy, Secretary General of the International Jute Study Group (IJSG) was the special guest at the seminar.

Industries Minister Mr. Dilip Barua said that we should identify new green business using green and eco-friendly technology to keep our environment sound and pollution free. He further said that we have to find out appropriate methods to encourage our entrepreneurs in order to come forward to set up eco-friendly industries in Bangladesh.  Mr. Barua stressed on the diversification of jute and jute-based products to meet the consumers demand. He mentioned that jute based paper and pulp could save our hard -earned foreign currency.

The IJSG Secretary General Mr. Sudripta Roy emphasized on management of supply chain, development of appropriate technology and ensuring financial viability of the green jute.

The DCCI President Mr. Abul Kasem Khan urged all concerned to make best use of green jute by manufacturing pulp and paper. He mentioned that the new beginning of jute through innovation and diversification would create employment opportunities particularly in the rural areas.

Mr. Mahbubur Rahman, President of ICC - Bangladesh moderated the seminar and said that appropriate measures should be taken for the development of jute sector as it is a fibre of future. Dr A B M Abdullah, former Director General of BJRI presented the key note paper. Mr. Abdul Matlub Ahmed, Chairman of Nitol Group, Dr. Monjurul Alam, Principal Scientific Officer of BJRI and Dr. Golam Mohiuddin, former Project Leader of IJSG were present as panel discussants.

Mr. Dilip Barua, Minister for Industries, govt. of Bangladesh (third from right) addressing as Chief Guest. Mr. Sudripta Roy, IJSG Secretary General (second from left), Mr. Abul Kasem Khan, DCCI President (third from left), Mr. M Shahjahan Khan, Senior Vice President (right), Mr. Md. Sirajuddin Malik, Vice President (left) and Mr. Mahbubur Rahman, President of ICC - Bangladesh (second from right) are also seen.

IJSG Secretary General speaking as special guest at the seminar

Panel Discussants expressing their views

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Seminar on Jute Production, Industry, Marketing and Farmers’ Interaction held in West Bengal

A Seminar on Jute Production, Industry, Marketing and Farmers’ Interaction and 9th Annual Group Meeting of All India Network Project on Jute & Allied Fibres was held at Central Research Institute for Jute & Allied Fibres (CRIJAF), Barrackpore, West Bengal on 5-6 February 2010.

West Bengal Agricultural Minister Mr. Naren Dey addressed in the inaugural function.

Mr. Sudripta Roy the Secretary General of the International Jute Study Group (IJSG) attended the programme and spoke on the possibilities of co-operation between IJSG and ICAR (Indian Council for Agriculture Research). He also presented a paper on “Global Perspective on Jute”.

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IJSG Secretary General meets the Head of Delegation of EU to Bangladesh on 24 January 2010

Mr. Sudripta Roy, Secretary General of the International Jute Study Group (IJSG) met His Excellency Dr. Stefan Frowein, the Ambassador and Head of the Delegation of the European Union to Bangladesh on 24 January 2010 at his office to have a discussion on jute based composite material (JUTIN) developed by Dr. Mubarak Ahmad Khan of the Banglaesh Atomic Energy Commission (BAEC).

Dr. Frowein welcomed the Secretary General and thanked for making himself available along with other officers of IJSG. He spoke on the importance of diversified uses of jute and added that the technology to produce jute based composite material (JUTIN) developed by Dr. Mubarak Ahmad Khan may be useful for the poor people of Bangladesh especially the people affected by cyclone or other natural calamities.  He remarked that it has appeared to him that the technology has potential and building materials could be made with this technology and used by the people. Dr. Frowein opined that people may be extremely benefited and he would be happy if this could be commercialized and made easily available to common people.

Mr. Sudripta Roy thanked HE the Ambassador of the EU for inviting him to have a discussion on the issue. He informed him of a project on Jute Reinforced Polyolefines implemented by the IJSG through AFSG of the Netherlands. He remarked that IJSG can take initiative to carry it forward and suggested that IJSG could organize a workshop in Dhaka and Kolkata to disseminate the technology to the entrepreneurs, plastic manufacturers and NGO’s so that interested entrepreneurs/persons may go for commercialization of the technology. In this context he opined that a market survey to assess the actual potential may be necessary to convince the entrepreneurs. It was discussed that the proposed workshop could be held in mid March in Dhaka.

Mr. Andrew Barnard, First Secretary (Political & Economic), Delegation of the European Union to Bangladesh; Mr. Faruque Hosain, Finance and Administrative Officer, IJSG; Mr. Md. Siddiqur Rahman, Consultant (Operations), IJSG and Dr. Mubarak Ahmad Khan, BAEC were present in the meeting.

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IJSG Secretary General meets the Hon’ble Minister for agriculture and cooperatives and senior government officials of Nepal

The IJSG Secretary General Mr. Sudripta Roy called on Mr. Mrigendra Kumar Singh Yadav, the Hon’ble Minister for Agriculture and Cooperatives, Government of Nepal at his office on 13 January 2010. He discussed the issue of Nepal’s Membership to IJSG and briefed the Hon’ble Minister on the importance of Nepal’s Membership vis-à-vis mutual benefit. He outlined the possible impact on the Jute Sector of Nepal in the field of Agriculture, Industry and Trade deriving out of implementation of various IJSG projects involving Nepal. The Hon’ble Minister was convinced about the proposal and assured to take positive steps in this regard even having a dialogue with the Prime Minister of Nepal if it so necessitates. Mr. Roy also met Dr. Braja Kishore P. Shaha, Secretary and Mr. Fulgen Pradhan, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Government of Nepal on the same day. He discussed the issue of Nepal’s Membership to IJSG with them. Dr. Shaha was found to be positive and assured that he would process the matter and take necessary steps.  

Earlier the IJSG Secretary General called on Dr. Madan Kumar Bhattarai, the Foreign Secretary, Government of Nepal on 12 January 2010. The Secretary General discussed the issue of Nepal’s Membership to IJSG with Dr. Madan and briefed him about various attempts made by the IJSG in the past. Mr. Roy also briefed him about possible waiver of Membership fee.  Dr. Madan assured the Secretary General that he would discuss the issue with his colleagues and take necessary steps.

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EUROJUTE becomes Associate Member of IJSG

European Association for the Trade in Jute and Related Products (EUROJUTE) has become the 108th Associate Member of the International Jute Study Group (IJSG) recently.

The EUROJUTE Secretary General Mr. Laurens van der Ziel informed the IJSG Secretariat that the Board of Eurojute is of the opinion that the IJSG is of the utmost importance for the entire jute sector, including the international trade. EUROJUTE remarked that IJSG is very inventive in developing and promoting jute all kinds of jute products. The Association added that the way IJSG manifested itself during the Conference of the Common Fund for Commodities last December 2009 in The Hague, the Board of Eurojute unreservedly took the decision to work with the IJSG in the interest of all parties in the jute sector.

It may be mentioned that EUROJUTE represents an important part of the European importers of Jute and related products. EUROJUTE services include: Contact and lobbying at appropriate organisations, information about new developments in trade, general sales conditions, standard buying contracts for jute, arbitration system and general meetings of members of the Association twice a year. Currently EUROJUTE has members in Belgium, France, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, The Netherlands, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.

To know more about EUROJUTE visit:  http://www.eurojute.org

Faruque Hossain attended the Natural Fibres Steering Committee Meeting in Frankfurt

Finance and Administrative Officer of the International Jute Study Group (IJSG)     Mr. Md. Faruque Hossain, attended the natural fibres steering committee meeting held in Frankfurt at the room Consens of Exhibition Centre of Messe Frankfurt, Germany on 13 January 2010. The meeting reviewed overall activities throughout the year 2009 in observing the International Year of Natural Fibres - IYNF 2009 and achievement there of. The meeting appreciated the role of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in organizing and coordinating the observance of the year even though it experienced a lot of constraints in terms of financial and human resources. The members of the steering committee acclaimed the strength of and keenness towards natural fibres and sincerity shown by Mr. Brian Moir and Mr. Adam Prakash of FAO while carrying out the activity of the observance of IYNF 2009.The meeting decided to write a letter of appreciation to the Director General of FAO for its support and placing the proposal of observance of IYNF to the UNGA.

The meeting also decided to make a request to the FAO to maintain IYNF website with calendar events and allow using the Logo of the IYNF (erasing 2009) in future activities of the natural fibres platform. In this context the meeting decided to call the forum as “Discover Natural Fibres Initiatives” to continue the activities. The meeting further decided to meet at any convenient time in Rome so that FAO could involve in the meeting easily.

The meeting was presided over by Mr. Henrik Kuffner, Director General, International Wool Textile Organization, Belgium. Among others, Mr. Allen A. Terhaar, Executive Director, Cotton Council International, USA, Dr. Elke Hortmeyer, Economic Research, Publications, Communications, BREMEN COTTON EXCHANGE, Germany, Dr. Christian Schindler, Director General, International Textile Manufacturers Federation, Switzerland, Marcello Hinxman-Allegri, Business Development Manager-Europe – Textiles & Creative Sectors, New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, Ms Edelgard Baumann Dipl-Ing, International Marketing Manager, Cotton Council International USA, Dr. Klaus-Jürgen Kraatz, Industrieverband,Garne - Gewebe - Technische Textilien e.V. Germany and Mr. Peter Clasen, Eurojute Board Member also attended the meeting.

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PSCB meeting to review its activities held in Kathmandu

A review meeting of the activities of the Private Sector Consultative Board (PSCB) was held at the Hotel Del Annapurna in Kathmandu, Nepal on 12 January 2010.

Chaired by Mr. D. C. Baheti, Chairman, PSCB the meeting reviewed the progress of the activities like Associate Membership, Seminar on Technologies Developed by IJIRA & SITRA, Training on Production and Application of Enzyme, Training of Mill Workers and Supervisors, Jute Geo-textiles, Disposal Protocol, Tariff and Non-Tariff Barriers, Increasing Cooperation with Buyers’/Consumers’ and INDICON Projects.

Among others, Mr. Raj Kumar Golchha (Nepal), Vice-Chairman of PSCB, Mr. Sudripta Roy, Secretary General of the International Jute Study Group (IJSG), Mr. Md. Siddiqur Rahman, Secretary, PSCB , Mr. Santosh Rijal, Director, Swastik Jute Mills (P) Ltd. and Mr. Prakash Mundara, Director, Baba Jute Mills (Pvt.) Ltd., Nepal attended the meeting.

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