The Central Government has extended the validity for mandatory use of jute packaging materials for certain commodities. This notification of extension was issued on October 1, 2024.
It may be recalled that on September 26, 2023, the Ministry of Textiles had directed that sugar and food grains shall be packed in jute packaging material for supply or distribution. This direction was valid till June 30, 2024. Now, by the present order this direction has been extended up to December 31, 2024.
Moreover, the notification also states that initially, 10% of foodgrain indents must be placed through reverse auction on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal. This is subject to the outcome of the court case pending before the Calcutta Hight Court.
The notification seeks to promote jute cultivation and support the jute industry while ensuring a smooth transition for stakeholders.