Advances in Jute and allied fibres post-harvest processing technologies in Bangladesh: Adoption constraints, prospect and future thrust (original) (raw)

Retting is a biological process by which the bast fibres are extracted by decomposing the plants by the combined action of water and aquatic microorganisms, mostly bacteria. In Bangladesh two kinds of Jute (namely; White Jute (Corchorus capsularis L.) and Tossa jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) are mainly grown for commercial purposes. Harvested Jute plants are made into bundles weighing about 10 kg each and then steeped under water of ponds, ditches, canals, lakes, rivers etc. as available in layers for retting. Water-hyacinth, water weeds, stems of banana plants, mango logs, earth chunks, bamboo etc. are used for submerging the rets under water. In about 15-20 days, the retting is completed and then fibres are extracted manually, washed and dried for sale. Since retting is the most important and predominant of all the factors influencing the fibre quality, Bangladesh Jute Research Institute has evolved many location specific improved Jute retting technologies. Since jute retting is a microbiological process, in the past researches more attention was given in its microbiological aspects. The microbial mechanism of retting and the microbes of the retting water of different places were studied in respect of their morphological and physiological characters and retting capabilities. Attempts were made to utilize the promising microorganims in the practical field for reducing retting period and improvement of fibre quality, but only limited success was achieved. It is being observed that evolved location specific Jute retting technologies are being disseminated and demonstrated to the Jute growers with the limited resources and facilities. There is a great economic significance of fibre quality. In fact in the context of present situation in which a severe competition between Jute and synthetic fibres is going on in respect of fineness, strength and price, the future of Jute fibre is very greatly depending on its quality. Jute will never be able to win this competition unless its quality is greatly improved and ensured the grade-wise price for the farmers.