The government is on the verge of closing down 22 jute mills owned by the government for incurring losses. Preparations are also being made to send about 25,000 workers working in these companies on retirement through Golden Handshake process.
The order is supposed to be issued within two months. The workers will be paid their dues within this period. For this, about 5 thousand crore taka will be spent from the budget.
However, we need to have a thorough study of why we can't exploit the full potential of the golden fibers. Everyone knows about the harmful effects of using synthetic fibers on the natural environment.
There is debate amongst conscious people about why
the jute mills failed to gain profit and many argue that
it was the fault of the decision-making process
In this situation we are not able to utilize the products made of natural fibers like jute despite the rising awareness and demand. Why government-owned jute mills were incurring loss with all the benefits?
There is debate amongst conscious people about why these failed to gain profit and many argue that it was the fault of the decision-making process. There are allegations of corruption and nepotism.
If they cheat in their work, action can be taken against them. There was always opportunity for the authorities. But how much accountability has been ensured for those who failed the jute mills and their workers.
The use of polythene is a big factor in this regard. Only if the government makes the use of jute products compulsory, running a jute mill can become profitable.
Similarly, if the use of polythene is restricted rather than being banned, it will also increase the use of jute products. In this way, the government can bring back the golden days of jute with some key and timely policy decisions.