Which of the following states in India is the leading producer of raw jute and jute goods, benefiting from the humid deltaic climate and fertile alluvial soils of the Hugli River basin?

💡 Solution & Explanation

West Bengal holds a pre-eminent position in jute cultivation and manufacturing in India, concentrated along the fertile banks and distributaries of the Hugli River. Assam and Bihar also cultivate jute in riverine floodplains, but on a smaller scale compared to West Bengal. Odisha produces minor quantities in coastal deltaic tracts. The abundant water supply for retting jute stalks and proximity to Kolkata port historically propelled West Bengal to the forefront of the global jute industry.