West Bengal farmers expect good jute production this year

Jalpaiguri (West Bengal), June 27 (ANI): Jute farmers in West Bengal's Jalpaiguri District are expecting a good production this year as the area has received good rainfall.

"This time, we have good rain and hopefully we get good yield. Lets see what happens in the market. Our livelihood depends on this," said Hadel Rai, a jute farmer.

The farmers added that though, there was a good amount of rainfall but insects and pest destroyed some crops at the beginning of the season.

Meanwhile, Subir Sarkar, a weather expert in West Bengal said jute fields need an equal amount of rainfall and sun exposure for jute production.

"Definitely, this last two days rain is really very good for them because they need now plenty of water and at the same time, plenty of sun. So, what is happening here, for four to five to six hours, continuous rains, then, sky becoming clearer, so sun comes," said Sarkar.

"So, for jute production, it's a real congenial atmosphere, congenial environment. So, for jute farmers, they should be very happy," he added.

He further said that continuous rains in the four districts of Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri, Coochbehar and Uttar Dinajpur would prove beneficial to farmers.

Sarkar said that in two days, average rainfall in the area has been 200 mm.

The farmers are also expecting some relief and benefit from the government as well.(ANI)