Eleventh meeting of the Committee on Projects (COP) of the International Jute Study Group held in Dhaka

The two-day Eleventh meeting of the Committee on Projects (COP) of the International Jute Study Group (IJSG) held at its Headquarters in Dhaka ended on 09 December 2010. Chairman of the COP - Md. Emdadul Haque, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Textiles and Jute, Government of Bangladesh chaired the meeting.

The Chairman, in his opening speech, appreciated the activities of the IJSG. In this context he particularly referred to the recently completed projects and activities of IJSG. He mentioned the programmes & events organised by the IJSG Secretariat in celebrating the International Year of Natural Fibre in 2009 (declared by the United Nations) in a befitting manner to stimulate demand for jute worldwide. Mr. Haque also lauded the IJSG effort in publishing a comprehensive book on jute entitled “Jute Basics” and hoped it would play a vital role in increasing awareness and thereby promoting trade & marketing of jute and jute products in the global market. “Small-scale Entrepreneurship development in diversified jute products”, another recently completed project has truly benefited the stakeholders esp. the rural women of Bangladesh and India in the field of jute diversified products (JDPs), he mentioned. He urged for sustained tracking and handholding of the beneficiaries to ensure commercial success and replication of the skills and products developed under the project.

In the context of a renewed global interest in natural fibres, he pledged all to put concerted efforts and seize upon these opportunities in innovating newer products and processes by further directing the research and development activities.

He urged upon the members to keep in mind important issues like inadequate supply of quality jute seeds, shortage of high quality fibre, obsolete technology, standardisation and price competitiveness of jute products, etc. while considering new projects.

Mr. Bhupendra Singh, the IJSG Secretary General briefed the committee on the development and activities of the Group since the last COP. He attached importance to the formulation of project proposals very carefully in keeping with the objectives and mandates of IJSG and that of the possible donors. He also requested the COP to reconsider a number of projects, approved earlier, based on the comments & views of the prospective donors.

The meeting reviewed the recently completed projects and activities and informed of the progress of the on-going projects.

The Committee highlighted the necessity for undertaking projects and activities, essential and beneficial to the relevant industries, and to promote and increase the market share of jute products worldwide, on priority basis, rather than purely on academic interest. 

The Committee re-elected the Joint Secretary (Policy), Ministry of Textiles & Jute, Government of the Peoples’ Republic of Bangladesh as Chairman, and Jute Commissioner, Ministry of Textiles, Government of India as Vice-Chairman of the COP for the jute year 2010 -2011.

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Mr. Bhupendra Singh, the Secretary General of the International Jute Study Group (IJSG) visited Amsterdam and Brussels from 10 November 2010 to 17 November 2010. During his visits, the Secretary General met with the officers in the Common Fund for Commodities (CFC) and EU and the Embassies of Bangladesh and India.

The IJSG Secretary General met with the Managing Director of CFC, Mr. Ambassador Ali Mchumo in the office of the Common Fund for Commodities at Amsterdam on 12 November 2010. MD CFC welcomed the Secretary General in his office and they discussed some new and ongoing project on jute funded by the CFC. The Secretary General had a detailed discussion with Mr. Sietse van der Werff, Senior Project Manager of CFC on the same day in CFC office at Amsterdam.

At Brussels, the Secretary General attended two different meetings with Mr. Luis Riera Figueras, Director, Development Policy: Thematic Issues, EU Commission-200 and Ms. Frauke Sommer, Policy Co-ordinator – South Asia, DG-Trade, European Commission on 15 November 2010. Mr. Enzo Barattini, Deputy Head, Unit G-12 5/7, EU was also presents during both the meetings.  Secretary General briefed the EU Officials regarding the activities of IJSG, its action plan for future and also the need for further support of EU for continuations of IJSG beyond 2014.

The Secretary General also met with H.E. Ms. Ismat Jahan, Ambassador and Head of Mission to the EU of Bangladesh in Amsterdam on 15 November 2010 and Indian Ambassador and Head of Mission to EU at Brussels H.E. Dr. Jaimini Bhagwati on November 16, 2010. During the meeting they discussed the future support of European Union to IJSG and other related issues.

Secretary General also met Mr. Dilip Tambyrajah of International Natural Fibre Organisation (INFO) on 11 November 2010 at Amsterdam and discussed the future action plans and activities. He also met Eurojute representatives Mr. Laurens van der Ziel, General Secretary, Eurojute and discussed issues of mutual interest.

IJSG Secretary General Mr. Bhupendra Singh in a meeting with Mr. Luis Riera Figueras, Director, Development Policy: Thematic Issues, EU Commission-200 and

Mr. Enzo Barattini, Deputy Head, Unit G-12 5/7, EU

IJSG Secretary General Mr. Bhupendra Singh in a discussion with Mr.  Ambassador Ali Mchumo, Managing Director of CFC at Amsterdam

Secretary General meets with Mr. Sietse van der Werff, Senior Project Manager and other officials of CFC

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Training on “Jute Spinning and Weaving” Held in IJSG

A Training Programme on “Jute Spinning and Weaving” under the “Skill Development Programme for the Supervisors & Technologists of the Jute Industry of Bangladesh and Pakistan” was organised by the Private Sector Consultative Board (PSCB) of the International Jute Study Group (IJSG) from 24th October 2010 to 3rd November 2010. The Training Programme was conducted by the faculty members of the Institute of Jute Technology (IJT), Kolkata, India. Mr. Ashraful Moqbul, the Hon’ble Secretary, Ministry of Textiles and Jute, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh was the Chief Guest at the Inaugural Session. The Chief Guest in his speech welcomed the initiative taken by the IJSG and expressed his hope that such a training was very much needed and it would be much helpful for the jute industry.

Mr. Bhupendra Singh, the Secretary General of the IJSG spoke on the occasion. The Secretary General welcomed the participants and the faculty members of IJT and hoped that the Training Programme would be beneficial for the participants and IJSG would take such programme in future for overall development of the jute sector.

The Training Programme was divided into two modules: i) Spinning & ii) Weaving.

A total of thirty seven (37) participants from different jute Mills/Institute of Bangladesh and Pakistan attended the Training on Spinning. The participants were awarded certificate after completion of the Training Programme on 27th October 2010.

A total of twenty six (26) participants from different jute Mills/Institute of Bangladesh and Pakistan attended the Training on Weaving. The participants were awarded certificate after completion of the Training Programme on 3rd November 2010.

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IJSG Secretary General meets the Minister to the Government of Bangladesh for Textiles and Jute

The Secretary General of the International Jute Study Group (IJSG) Mr. Bhupendra Singh met the Hon’ble Minister for Textiles and Jute, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh Mr. Abdul Latif Siddiqui at his office in the Bangladesh Secretariat, Dhaka on 19 October 2010.

Various matters related to the jute economy, the challenges faced by the jute industry in relation to production, availability of quality raw materials, jute seeds, necessity for technology improvement as well as the IJSG membership issue were discussed during the meeting. Secretary General congratulated the Hon’ble Minister for enacting new Law for compulsory packaging in jute bags and also for reopening few jute mills in the Govt. Sector. It was discussed that for the continuation of the Group, the present IJSG member countries should sincerely take initiative to involve more potential countries to the Group as full members to enable the IJSG to undertake more programmes. The Hon’ble Minister reiterated the issue of upgrading the status of IJSG to the International Jute Organisation (IJO) during the discussion. Secretary General promised to undertake all necessary steps in this direction.   

The Secretary General, Mr. Singh hoped that he would get all possible support from the government of Bangladesh to move ahead with the objectives of the Group and make the organisation an effective forum to work for the betterment of the global jute sector. Hon’ble Minister assured the Secretary General of all possible assistance in the activities of the Group and for the promotion of jute.

Meeting ended on a very cordial note and Secretary General expressed his gratitude for the kindness of Minister. Mr. Ashraful Moqbul, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles and Jute and Mr. Md. Faruque Hossain, Finance and Administrative Officer of the IJSG were present during the discussion.

Mr. Bhupendra Singh, IJSG Secretary General discussing with  Hon’ble Minister Mr. Abdul Latif Siddiqui, Ministry of Textiles and Jute, Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh. Mr. Md. Ashraful Moqbul, Secretary of the Ministry of Textiles and Jute, Bangladesh was also present during the discussion.

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IJSG Secretary General meets Ambassador of Switzerland in Bangladesh

The IJSG Secretary General Mr. Bhupendra Singh met His Excellency Mr. Urs Herren, Ambassador, Embassy of Switzerland in Bangladesh at his office in Dhaka on 13 October 2010. 

Mr. Herren warmly greeted Mr. Singh for assuming the office of the Secretary General of the IJSG. He expressed his concern on usage of more natural fibre products all over the world. He informed that many NGOs in Switzerland are used to campaigning for the use of jute and jute products for sustainable development and environmental friendliness which may be exercised by other countries also. Mr. Herren expressed his hope that Mr. Singh, would show admirable performance and take suitable steps for continuation of the Group for the growth of the world jute economy and promote generic image of jute in the global market.

Mr. Singh on his part, said that the group is trying its best to rebuild the image of jute and play a vital role in poverty alleviation and income generating as well as empowerment through its various project activities. He also mentioned the various positive steps taken by the Government in Bangladesh. This includes compulsory packaging of food grains in jute bags and revival of few public sector jute industries. He sought all cooperation from the Ambassador as well as his country.

Mr. Md. Faruque Hossain, Finance and Administrative Officer, IJSG and Mr. Gabriele Derighetti, Deputy Head of Mission, Political, Cultural and Economic Affairs, Embassy of Switzerland in Bangladesh were present during the discussion.

Mr. Bhupendra Singh, IJSG Secretary General discussing with Mr. Urs Herren, Ambassador, Embassy of Switzerland in Bangladesh. Mr. Gabriele Derighetti, Deputy Head of Mission, Political, Cultural and Economic Affairs, Embassy of Switzerland in Bangladesh was also present during the discussion

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IJSG Secretary General meets Head of Delegation of EU in Bangladesh

The IJSG Secretary General Mr. Bhupendra Singh met His Excellency Dr. Stefan Frowein, Ambassador, Head of Delegation of the European Union to Bangladesh at his office in Dhaka on 12 October 2010.

They discussed several issues related to the activities of the IJSG and overall jute economy. The IJSG Secretary General thanked His Excellency for his continuous support to the activities of the Group and for the development of the jute sector. He expressed his gratitude to the Ambassador particularly for making arrangement for the IJSG participation in the fair during the Observance of Europe Day in Dhaka.  Mr. Singh said that people all over the world are becoming more inclined to use more natural fibre products in view of the environmental friendliness. He said that IJSG Secretariat is trying its best to rebuild the image of jute. The Secretary General highlighted the role of the member countries of the IJSG in making the Group more vibrant and on international character and ethos.

Dr. Stefan Frowein pointed out the importance of the role of the IJSG in creating awareness regarding the necessity of using jute in place of synthetic fibre and implementing more projects and activities in enhancing the quality of jute. He expected that the government of the producing countries would strengthen their marketing policy with regard to the trade of the jute products in the global market. He said that if properly sensitized by IJSG, the embassies may play a proactive role in marketing of jute products in the consuming countries. He said that the production of jute and its demand in the market is increasing. Now a supply chain is required to be generated by the producing countries for ensuring the demand of the world market. Dr. Frowein assured of all possible assistance to strengthen the activities of the Group and reiterated his love for jute. 

Mr. Md. Faruque Hossain, Finance & Administrative Officer of the IJSG was present during the discussion.

Mr. Bhupendra Singh (right), IJSG Secretary General discussing with  Dr. Stefan Frowein, Ambassador, Head of Delegation of the European Union to Bangladesh

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

The newly joined Secretary General of the IJSG Mr. Bhupendra Singh met Mr. Md. Ashraful Moqbul, Secretary of the Ministry of Textiles and Jute, Bangladesh at his office in the Bangladesh Secretariat, Dhaka on 07 September 2010.

Mr. Moqbul welcomed Mr. Singh for assuming the office of the Secretary General of the IJSG. They discussed various issues specially the policy regarding reservation of using jute bag for carrying food, suger, fertilizer etc. adopted by the Government of Bangladesh recently. Mr. Singh, based on his experience of such policy in India, appreciated this policy of the government and said that such reservation will help the farmers in long terms. Secretary General highlighted the interdependency of Bangladesh and India for quality seed and quality raw jute and said that the two countries must work together to minimize the dependency and make the market of jute products globally viable. Mr. Moqbul showed his interest to share the experiences in the diversification of jute between Bangladesh and India to encourage people to use more natural fibre products. Mr. Singh sought assistance of the Ministry of Textiles and Jute, Government of Bangladesh regarding the possibilities of establishing IJSG on stronger footing with more members and extension of its life. The Secretary, MOTJ assured the Secretary General to provide all possible help for the development of the jute sector and hoped that he would also get the support and cooperation from the IJSG. 

Mr. Bhupendra Singh (right), IJSG Secretary General discussing with  Mr. Md. Ashraful Moqbul, Secretary of the Ministry of Textiles and Jute, Bangladesh at his office in the Bangladesh Secretariat

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BHUPENDRA SINGH - NEW SECRETARY GENERAL OF IJSG

Mr. Bhupendra Singh has joined as the new Secretary General of the International Jute Study Group (IJSG) at its headquarters in Dhaka on October 01, 2010 as the successor of Mr. Sudripta Roy (India).  Mr. Singh, a national of India, is a member of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and has put in 23 years in the civil service of the Government of India holding a number of important positions.

Prior to joining the IJSG, he was working as the Secretary, Ministry of Social Welfare, Uttar Pradesh, Government of India. Earlier, he was the Joint Secretary to the Government of India in the Ministry of Textiles and looking after various natural as well as manmade fibres including jute, silk, and wool. He was also in charge of promoting technical textiles in the country. He took several initiatives in making the jute industry modern and vibrant through modernization and diversification of jute products. Mr. Singh was the Project Director of Jute Technology Mission of Government of India. He was also a Director of the Boards of the Jute Corporation of India (JCI), the Jute Manufactures Development Council (JMDC) and the then National Council for Jute Diversification (NCJD).

Besides, he worked in the Ministries of Home Affairs, Sports & Youth Affairs, Industrial Development, Revenue, Tourism, Rural Development and General Administration both in the Government of India and in the Government of Uttar Pradesh.

The most important task before him as the fourth Secretary General of the IJSG will be: 

(a)      to revive and revitalize the jute fibre as a natural fibre which would provide livelihood opportunities to millions of  farmers and breathe new life in a decadent industry;

(b)     to provide proper focus to allied natural fibres like kenaf, sisal, coir and hemp; 

(c)      to promote diversification of these natural fibres mainly in the areas of technical textiles like geotextiles and agro textiles;

(d)      to ensure application and commercialisation of previous studies and R&D findings in studies sponsored by IJSG; and

(e)      to ensure continuation of IJSG as the duly international organisation dealing with jute.

The immediate priorities for him would be to embark upon the extension of the organisation and also a fruitful renegotiation of the agreement establishing the IJSG which will lead to a massive membership drive to bring into the fold all stakeholders of natural fibres which would include not only allied fibres using nation states but also a large world wide private sector.

It may be mentioned that Mr. Bhupendra Singh was appointed as the Secretary General of the IJSG at its Eleventh Session of the Council held during 02-03 May 2010.

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Md. Rezaul Karim elected PSCB chairman of IJSG

Md. Rezaul Karim, Proprietor of S.N. Jute International (Jute Exporter), Bangladesh has been elected chairman of the Private Sector Consultative Board (PSCB) of the International Jute Study Group (IJSG) for the year 2010-2011.

The Tenth Meeting of the Private Sector Consultative Board (PSCB) of the International Jute Study Group (IJSG) was held in Nairobi, Kenya on 20-21 September 2010.

The Board also elected Mr. Humayun Mazhar, Chief Executive Officer of Crescent Jute Products Limited, Pakistan and Mr. Raj Kumar Golchha, Nepal as Vice-chairmen for the same year.

Mr. D.C. Baheti, Chairman of the PSCB presided over the meeting while Mr. Sudripta Roy, Secretary General of the IJSG was present and made a statement.

It may he mentioned that PSCB was established by Council of the International Jute Study Group (IJSG) to encourage active participation of the private sector in the work of the group and continue dialogue among experts in the jute 1ndustry and make recommendations to the council in all matters related to the development of the jute sector.

At Present there are 113 Associate Members of the IJSG representing Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Cote d’Ivoire, Switzerland, Nepal, Japan, Vietnam, Malaysia, Russia, Korea, United Arab Emirates (UAE), United Kingdom (UK), Syria, China, The Netherlands, Jordan, Australia and Nigeria.

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Tenth Meeting of the PSCB of the IJSG held in Nairobi, Kenya

The Tenth Meeting of the Private Sector Consultative Board (PSCB) of the International Jute Study Group (IJSG) was held at the Six Eighty (680) Hotel, Nairobi, Kenya on 20-21 September 2010. Mr. D.C. Baheti, Chairman of the PSCB presided over the meeting while Mr. Sudripta Roy, Secretary General of the IJSG was present and made a statement.

The Secretary General, IJSG spoke about the IJSG activities and remarked that Kenya is rich in natural fibres and is a good destination for trade in jute and jute products. He added that IJSG wants to work closely with Kenya and Kenyan trade bodies to promote jute. He spoke on the Road Map for jute and diversified jute products with particular mention of jute geotextiles.

The meeting was open to all Associate Members of the IJSG. The PSCB reviewed the status of the Associate Members of the IJSG and recommended that the PSCB should have more members to include exporters, importers, traders, market experts, manufacturers and NGOs to make the Board more effective.

The Board requested the IJSG Secretariat to hold Workshops in suitable countries like Australia/Indonesia to promote sharing of information on R&D activities as well as on development of technologies apart from the drive on new membership for IJSG. The PSCB decided to take necessary steps to compile a database of tariffs on Jute and Jute products and non-tariff barriers relating to Jute and Jute products in different producing and importing countries. The Board requested all Associate Members to submit information in this regard to the IJSG Secretariat for compilation. The Board appreciated the initiative taken by the IJSG Secretariat in implementing a project on jute geo-textiles involving Bangladesh, India and UK and also organising the Small-Scale Training Programs for jute mill personnel of Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and Nepal in Dhaka in October 2010.

The PSCB stressed on the necessity for increasing fibre productivity and fibre quality and cooperation among the buyers’ and consumers’ organisations.

At Present there are 113 Associate Members of the IJSG representing Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Cote d’Ivoire, Switzerland, Nepal, Japan, Vietnam, Malaysia, Russia, Korea, United Arab Emirates (UAE), United Kingdom (UK), Syria, China, The Netherlands, Jordan, Australia and Nigeria.

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Kona–Tex of Russia visits IJSG

A two member delegation of Kona-Tex, a Russian company visited the International Jute Study Group (IJSG) secretariat and met the IJSG officials on 07 September 2010 to discuss various issues relating to market price and trade of jute. The Russian Delegates were visiting Bangladesh to study the current jute situation. It may be mentioned that Kona–Tex is an Associate Member of the IJSG.

The Delegation was comprised of Mr. Valentin V. Zhiltsov- Director on external economic activities and Mr. Andrey Samsonov, Commercial Director of Kona Tex.

Mr. Sudripta Roy, Secretary General of the IJSG, Mr. Md. Faruque Hossain, Finance and Administrative Officer and Mr. Md. Siddiqur Rahman, Consultant (Operations) of the IJSG took part in the discussion which mainly focused on production and price of raw jute and also the activities of the IJSG. The Delegation has also visited the Display Centre and the Photo and Art Gallery of the IJSG.

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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 .

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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.

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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)

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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.

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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.

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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”.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.     

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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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