Due to the growing demand, the price of jute, once called the golden fibre of Bangladesh, in Rajshahi has increased nearly threefold in the last 10 years. As a result, cultivation has also increased almost twofold. This season, jute cultivation in the district has increased by about 7,000 bighas. Following that, those involved in jute cultivation say- the golden days of the golden fiber of Bangladesh starts returning. According to relevant sources, jute production in Rajshahi has increased by 22,946 metric tons over the past 10 years.
During this period, an additional 7,000 hectares of land have been brought under jute cultivation, according to a report (2016-2026) revealed by the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), Rajshahi. In addition to the rise in jute prices, cultivation and production in Rajshahi have increased with the cooperation and advice of the agriculture office. In 2016, the yield from 11,260 hectares of land was 22,836 metric tons. Ten years later, in 2025, production from 17,305 hectares reached 45,782 metric tons. Farmers' interest in jute farming has grown because they have been getting good prices for the last four years.
Kalam, a farmer from the Duary area of Paba Upazila, said, "Including land lease, seeds, fertilizer, labor, irrigation and all other costs, the expense is about Taka 20,000 per bigha. The yield per bigha is nine to 10 maunds. After deducting costs, last year I made a profit of Taka 16,000 to 18,000 per bigha. Other farmers in his area have also profited from jute cultivation, which is why they have planted jute on more land this year. According to DAE, Rajshahi, this year jute has been cultivated on 18,305 hectares of land in the district, which is about 7,000 bighas more than the set target. Due to favorable weather condition, the jute crop is in good condition so far.
The Department of Agricultural Marketing stated, "We are regularly monitoring the market to ensure farmers' jute is sold at a fair price. Market committees have been instructed to ensure farmers' rightful dues. Since jute is Bangladesh's traditional export crop, so market system must be made stronger to keep farmers profitable while middlemen must be controlled. The government is working to implement the Mandatory Jute Packaging Act of 2010 to increase domestic use. In addition, farmers are getting fair prices due to the raw jute export policy, said sources.
Sources report there are a total of seven jute mills in the district, including Rajshahi Jute Mills. These mills buy jute directly from farmers at fair prices. The largest is Rahman Jute Spinners in Puthia Upazila, with a production capacity of 100 metric tons. In addition, Rahman Jute Mill has a capacity of 20 metric tons, Hasen Jute Mill 18 metric tons, and Nowhata Jute Mill and Aman Jute Fibers each have a capacity of 15 metric tons. Overall, last year farmers not only got a good yield but also received their desired price. Those involved believe that if jute prices remain at this level, cultivation will increase further in the future.
Mohammad Nasir Uddin, Deputy Director, DAE, Rajshahi said seeds, fertilizer and pesticides are being distributed among the farmers along with necessary advice to raise farmer’s interest in jute cultivation. Overall, it has been possible to increase jute cultivation in this region by motivating farmers, he said adding due to the government ban on polythene bags, the use of jute bags and sacks has increased, which is directly benefiting farmers.
