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India's Jute Economy

Mill Closures and Workers

Why many jute mills are old and inefficient, why lockouts and closures are common, and the struggles of jute mill workers.

Many jute mills are struggling.

Old machines

Many mills use old machinery with low productivity.

Lockouts

Mills often declare suspension of work or lockouts during losses or disputes.

Workers

  • Workers face irregular work and pay.
  • Some mills employ casual workers without benefits.

Dependence

Mills depend on government orders, so delays cause shutdowns.

Modernisation

Schemes supported new machinery, but many mills remain outdated.

Economics

Protection without modernisation can leave industries stuck.

The suspension notice

Workers arrive to find a notice of suspension of work posted on the mill gate.

Thinking protection guarantees a healthy industry

Many mills remain outdated.

Key takeaways
  • Many mills are old.
  • Lockouts are common.
  • Workers face insecurity.
  • Modernisation lags.
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