Which Crop of India is Known as the Golden Fibre?

India is home to many valuable crops that not only support its economy but also hold great cultural and historical importance. Among them, one particular crop stands out for its golden shine, usefulness, and contribution to industries like textiles and packaging. Known for its strength, flexibility, and eco-friendly nature, this crop has earned a special nickname that reflects its rich value and significance.

Golden Fibre Crop of India

The crop in India known as the Golden Fibre is jute. It gets this name because of its shiny golden colour and high economic value. Jute is a natural, soft, and strong fibre used to make bags, ropes, carpets, and packaging materials. It is eco-friendly and biodegradable, making it a sustainable alternative to plastic. India is one of the world’s largest producers of jute, mainly grown in West Bengal and Bihar.

Why Jute is Called the Golden Fibre?

Jute is often called the “Golden Fibre” because of its natural golden shine and economic importance. It has been an essential part of India’s agricultural and industrial economy for decades. The fibre’s strength, durability, and eco-friendly nature make it a great alternative to synthetic materials like plastic.

Apart from this, the jute industry provides employment to millions of farmers and workers, especially in eastern India. Its role in promoting rural livelihoods makes it one of the country’s most valuable natural resources.

Major Jute Producing States in India

India is the largest producer of jute in the world, followed by Bangladesh. Together, both countries produce over 90% of the world’s jute supply. The Ganga Delta region provides the ideal environment for jute cultivation because of its humid climate and fertile soil.

West Bengal

West Bengal produces about 75% of India’s total jute output. The main jute-growing districts include Murshidabad, Nadia, North 24 Parganas, and Cooch Behar.
The Hooghly Industrial Belt is home to most of India’s jute mills. The combination of fertile soil and a suitable climate makes West Bengal the heart of India’s jute production.

Bihar

Bihar ranks second in jute production. Districts such as Purnia, Katihar, and Darbhanga are the main jute-growing areas. The fertile plains near the Ganga River provide ideal conditions for cultivation.
Jute farming in Bihar supports thousands of farmers and supplies raw material to small industries, boosting the state’s agricultural economy.

Assam

In Assam, districts like Goalpara, Nagaon, and Dhubri are known for producing good-quality jute. The state’s humid climate and heavy rainfall help produce soft and strong jute fibres.
Jute is widely used in Assam for making ropes, bags, handicrafts, and traditional items, creating employment opportunities in rural areas.

Odisha

In Odisha, jute is grown mainly in Cuttack, Balasore, and Kendrapara districts. The fertile land and river-based irrigation systems help farmers grow quality jute.
Government initiatives have encouraged farmers to shift from paddy to jute farming, increasing their income and promoting eco-friendly agriculture.

Meghalaya

Jute cultivation in Meghalaya is concentrated in the Garo Hills region. Although production is small compared to other states, the jute from Meghalaya is known for its strength, fine texture, and high quality.
The state also promotes organic jute farming, which benefits small farmers and helps maintain ecological balance.