The Jute Raw Material Bank Scheme (JRMB) aims to set up local supply points in jute-producing areas Read More... to provide raw jute materials at competitive prices to artisans and small businesses. Read less
Details
The Indian government, through the Ministry of Textiles, has launched the Jute Raw Material Bank Scheme (JRMB). This initiative is designed to boost the jute industry by ensuring that artisans, women's self-help groups, and small-scale jute product manufacturers have easy access to essential raw materials.
The JRMB Scheme involves setting up 'banks' in jute-producing clusters across India. These banks will work with experienced agencies that have the necessary infrastructure for storage and sales. Their main job is to source raw jute directly from mills and manufacturers at good prices and make it available to local beneficiaries.
This scheme is primarily for individuals and groups involved in making jute products. This includes Jute Artisans, Women Self-Help Groups (WSHGs), Jute Diversified Product (JDP) Micro & Small Units, and beneficiaries of JRCPC. The goal is to help them produce jute diversified products more affordably and competitively.
The JRMB Scheme addresses a key challenge faced by small jute businesses: the irregular and often expensive availability of raw materials. By creating local hubs that provide backward linkages and supply materials at below mill-gate prices, the scheme aims to make jute products more cost-competitive, support diversification, and ensure a steady supply of quality materials for value addition.
Objective
Benefits
Sources and references
Applications for setting up a Jute Raw Material Bank (JRMB) must be submitted offline. Ensure your application is in a sealed hard copy and signed on every page. All accompanying documents should be numbered sequentially before submission.
Address for Submission:
Office of the Jute Commissioner,
Ministry of Textiles,
Government of India.
(Specific address details should be obtained from the official notification or website if provided)
Official Link for Details:
What is the main purpose of the Jute Raw Material Bank Scheme?
The scheme aims to establish local supply points called Jute Raw Material Banks (JRMBs) within jute clusters. These banks will make raw jute materials easily available to beneficiaries like Jute Artisans, Women Self-Help Groups (WSHGs), and small Jute Diversified Product (JDP) units at prices below the mill-gate rate. This helps them produce JDPs more cost-competitively.
Who is eligible to run a Jute Raw Material Bank (JRMB)?
Bonafide Indian agencies are eligible. This includes registered jute entrepreneurs, manufacturers, exporters, traders, NGOs, cooperative societies, and government PSUs or organizations. They need to have at least three years of experience in trading, production, or marketing of jute products or similar schemes in related sectors. Agencies with proven experience in similar schemes will be preferred.
What kind of financial assistance does the Ministry of Textiles provide under this scheme?
The scheme offers 30% financial support on the sales value, capped at ₹12,00,000/- per year for each JRMB. This support includes a 5% direct discount given to the beneficiaries on the mill-gate price and up to 25% to cover transportation and operational costs.
Is there any special financial help for JRMBs located in difficult terrains?
Yes, an additional freight subsidy of ₹1.50 per kg is provided to JRMBs operating in hilly regions or areas with high transportation costs. This includes states like Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and the North-Eastern states, as well as island territories like Andaman & Lakshadweep.
What are the expected sales targets for each JRMB?
Each JRMB is expected to achieve an annual sales target of ₹40 lakh. They must also serve at least 20 beneficiaries each year. There's also a limit of ₹2 lakh per beneficiary for annual purchases from the JRMB.
How are the financial claims disbursed to the JRMBs?
The financial support is disbursed quarterly. To receive these funds, the JRMB must submit valid documents such as audited accounts, GST returns, bills/invoices, bank statements, and ledgers for verification.
What infrastructure facilities must the agency setting up a JRMB provide?
The collaborating agency is responsible for bearing the costs of setting up and maintaining the JRMB. This includes providing space (minimum 200 sq. ft.), warehouse facilities, electricity, water, furniture, and essential office equipment like a telephone/internet connection and a computer/laptop.
What types of raw materials can these JRMBs stock and supply?
JRMBs can stock and supply various jute materials, including jute fibre, finer count yarns, 100% jute or blended fabrics, laminated fabrics, technical textiles, and decorative or braided yarns. These materials must be procured against GST invoices from registered mills.
How should I submit my proposal to set up a JRMB?
Proposals need to be submitted offline. They should be in a sealed hard copy, with each page signed by the applicant. Additionally, all supporting documents should be numbered sequentially before submission.
Can you list the essential documents needed to apply for this scheme?
Key documents required include the company's PAN Card, identity and address proof, proof of premise ownership or rent, GST registration, trade license (if any), income tax returns for the last three years, audited balance sheets for the last three years, and documents proving work experience. Recommendations from local authorities like the District Magistrate or DIC are also necessary.