India’s jute industry, rich in heritage and sustainability, is undergoing a quiet transformation—thanks to the Jute Raw Material Bank (JRMB) scheme by the National Jute Board (NJB). This innovative initiative is bridging the gap between raw material producers and jute product makers by making jute materials accessible, affordable, and available locally.
Let’s break down what this scheme is, who can benefit, and how you can apply.
What is the Jute Raw Material Bank?
The JRMB, often called Jute Bank, is a physical center where raw jute materials like yarn, fabrics, ropes, and blends are stored and sold to jute product makers at mill-gate prices—without the need to buy in bulk or travel far.
Each Jute Bank acts as a supply hub, especially for:
- Women-led self-help groups (WSHGs)
- Rural artisans
- Micro and small manufacturers
- Startups in the jute diversified product (JDP) sector
- NGOs and cooperatives
Objective of the Scheme
- Ensure easy access to jute raw materials for small producers and artisans
- Reduce production costs and logistics burden
- Promote rural entrepreneurship and women empowerment
- Boost the market for eco-friendly, handmade jute products
- Increase employment in jute-growing and jute-processing regions
Financial Assistance: How Much Support Is Given?
The National Jute Board provides up to ₹12 lakh per year per Jute Bank under this scheme. Here’s how:
| Component | Amount/Percentage |
|---|---|
| Cash Discount to Buyers | 5% of raw material sales value |
| Reimbursement (logistics etc.) | 25% of sales value (max â‚ą12 lakh/year) |
| Freight Subsidy (Hilly/N-E) | â‚ą1.50 per kg (extra support) |
Important: This helps Operating Agencies (OAs) keep raw material prices low and still earn profit sustainably.
Who Can Apply or Benefit?
Raw Material Buyers
- Jute artisans
- SHGs
- Women-led rural units
- JDP entrepreneurs and exporters
They can purchase jute raw materials like:
- Jute yarn (single, plied, dyed)
- Jute blended fabrics
- Laminated jute fabric
- Fancy threads, tapes, etc.
At affordable, factory-level prices!
Operating Agencies (to run a Jute Bank)
- NGOs, cooperatives, SHGs
- Private companies
- Government enterprises or PSUs
- Exporters or jute traders with 3+ years of experience
Must have:
- 200+ sq. ft. shop/office space
- â‚ą10 lakh minimum annual turnover (preferred)
- Storage, sales and handling infrastructure
- At least 20 buyers per year from their region
Where to Apply?
Applications can be submitted to the National Jute Board (NJB) when calls for Expression of Interest (EOI) are published. Here’s how to proceed:
Steps:
- Visit the official NJB website: www.jute.com
- Navigate to “Schemes” > “Jute Raw Material Bank”
- Download the application guidelines & EOI format
- Submit proposal with:
- Infrastructure details
- Proof of experience
- Turnover certificates
- MoU with raw material suppliers
- Physical verification by NJB
- Get In-Principle Approval, and start operations
📧 You can also contact NJB Regional Offices in Kolkata, Bhubaneswar, Guwahati, New Delhi, and Chennai.
Why This Matters – Real Impact
- ✅ Cuts 15–30% of cost for artisans and MSMEs
- âś… Improves regular supply of yarns and fabrics
- âś… Boosts eco-friendly production and exports
- âś… Reduces reliance on middlemen and bulk buying
- âś… Empowers women-led SHGs and rural startups
- âś… Helps promote sustainable alternatives to plastic
Final Thoughts
The Jute Bank Scheme is more than a supply initiative—it’s a grassroots empowerment mission. If you’re an entrepreneur, NGO, or artisan in the jute sector, this scheme can help you scale without financial strain.
Whether you’re in business or want to start one, leveraging the JRMB scheme can be a game-changer in building a Green, Made-in-India future.
đź”— For updates and guidance, visit: www.jute.com
đź“ž Contact NJB: +91-33-2252-4083
📬 Email: jute@njbindia.in
