Which of the following factors is/are responsible for high concentration of jute mills in the Hugli basin? I. Nearness to coalfields II. Convenient dry climate for spinning and weaving. Select the correct answer using the code given below:

The concentration of jute mills in the Hugli basin is driven by several geographical and economic factors. Statement I is correct as the region benefits from the nearness of coal mines, specifically Raniganj and Jharia, which provide the necessary energy for the mills [1]. Other factors include the proximity to jute-producing areas in the Ganga-Brahmaputra delta, abundant water from the Hugli river for processing raw jute, and cheap water transport [1]. Statement II is incorrect because jute manufacturing requires a humid climate, not a dry one. High humidity is essential for the spinning and weaving of jute fibers to prevent them from breaking. Additionally, the region's historical status as a capital and its established port facilities at Kolkata and Haldia further facilitated industrial growth.

Sources

1. [1] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 11: Industries > JUTE TEXTILE > p. 19